Abstract
D.Phil. (Engineering Management)
Primary research will seek to evaluate by means of thorough literature review the role and application of both the Critical Success Factors for Six Sigma and Design for Six Sigma towards the achievement of Capability Maturity and Operational Excellence complementing Lean Operational Strategy maximising ROI with the impact presented but also disruptive changes presented by Industry 4.0 technologies. The Continuous Improvement methodologies are misunderstood including the Factors which are Critical in successful deployment. Six Sigma and Design for Six Sigma on the other hand, is somewhat different in origin, philosophy, range of applicability, technical content and implementation approach. While it can be tempting to capitalise on combining Six Sigma, Design for Six Sigma and Lean approaches, this merger makes for significant debate in order to achieve Capability Maturity.
Secondary Research will seek to investigate, from both survey results and interview responses, what additional methodologies can be included in an integrated Capability Maturity Model. This research will consist of analysing reported root causes in CI project failures with Critical Success Factor determination to propose a framework where Lean, Six Sigma and Design for Six Sigma can be deployed effectively to complement an operational strategy towards Capability Maturity.
Tertiary Research will seek to design and propose an integrated Capability Maturity framework consisting of a multi-model Continuous Improvement framework. This proposed integrated Capability Maturity Model will explore the contribution of Continuous Improvement methodologies such as TOC, Lean Six Sigma (LSS), Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and Industry 4.0 technological advances presented through increasing convergence of both hard and software products. The advances made in Information and Communication Technology industries in CMMI, Agile and Scrum methodologies will also be explored for potential inclusion in an integrated Capability Maturity Model.