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A Side-by-Side Comparison of Popular Process Improvement Methodologies
Kelly Perry
March 29, 2025
Introduction
Improving efficiency, reducing errors, and optimizing business processes can feel overwhelming—especially with so many methodologies to choose from. In our blog post, Process Improvement Methodologies: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right One, we covered the basics of major approaches like Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen. But how do these methods compare in action? And which one is the best fit for your needs?
In this edition of the newsletter, we’ll walk through a real-world business challenge and explore how different process improvement methodologies would approach it. Think of it like a side-by-side playbook, so you can see exactly how each method works in action and which one might be the best fit for your own processes.
The Scenario: Reducing Customer Support Response Times
Imagine you’re leading a customer support team, and response times have been creeping up. Customers are frustrated, tickets are piling up, and your team is struggling to keep up. You need a solution—fast. Here’s how different process improvement methodologies would approach the problem.
Methodology | Core Focus | Approach to the Problem | Solution |
Lean | Cutting out inefficiencies | Find bottlenecks, streamline workflows | Your team maps out the entire support process and identifies delays– maybe ticket assignments are too slow. The fix? Automate routing and remove unnecessary steps. |
Six Sigma | Reducing defects & errors | Use data analysis to pinpoint the root cause of delays | You collect and analyze ticket resolution data to uncover trends. The issue? Some inquiries are miscategorized, leading to delays. Solution: Train staff on accurate ticket classification and streamline resolution pathways |
Lean Six Sigma | Efficiency + Quality | Blend speed-focused Lean with precision-driven Six Sigma | Combining both approaches, your team removes unnecessary steps while using data insights to improve accuracy. The result? Faster, more precise responses. |
Kaizen | Continuous small improvements | Encourage daily team-driven changes for long-term gains | Employees suggest small, daily improvements– like pre-written responses for common issues or slight tweaks to workflows. Over time, these minor changes lead to major efficiency gains. |
TQM | Company-wide quality improvement | Build a culture of quality through training and strategy | A long-term strategy focuses on embedding quality into every aspect of customer support, from hiring and training to performance tracking. It’s about building a culture where great service is second nature. |
BPM | Process automation & optimization | Use technology to streamline and improve workflows | You implement AI-driven ticket sorting and automation, ensuring that urgent requests get priority while repetitive inquiries are handled by chatbots. This takes efficiency to the next level. |
Choosing the Right Methodology for You
Not sure which approach fits your needs? Consider this:
Want quick, small improvements? → Kaizen
Need a data-driven solution? → Six Sigma
Looking for a balance of speed and quality? → Lean Six Sigma
Focused on company-wide transformation? → TQM
Leveraging technology for efficiency? → BPM
If you’re considering process improvement certifications, these methodologies can also open doors to career growth.
Methodology | Certification Available? |
Lean | Yes |
Six Sigma | Yes |
Lean Six Sigma | Yes |
Kaizen | No (but training available) |
TQM | Yes (ISO 9001) |
BPM | Yes |
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Choosing the right methodology isn’t just about improving processes—it’s about driving real, measurable impact. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or looking to enhance your skill set, understanding these approaches will help you make informed decisions.
Have you pursued certification in one of these methodologies? I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment and let’s chat about what worked for you– and what didn’t.
Process Improvement Resources
Be sure to check out more free resources about process improvement below.
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