An holistic implementation of lean six sigma methodology on maintenance subsystem

Abstract

Purpose: One of the main problems relevant with enterprises is to be able to cope with maintenance problems in order to maintain decrease of stoppages, time and economical losses in the production area. In order to acquire an effective and profitable maintenance policy in a production company, there is high demand of methodological strategy to improve the maintenance subsystem. Purpose of this research is to be able to implement the lean six sigma methodology on maintenance subsystem as successfully and supply more effective sustainable maintenance system. Design/methodology/approach: Lean six sigma methodology purpose on eliminating defects and improve the effectiveness of a process. Research methodology is designed according to the purpose and goals of the research which is based on DMAIC tool within the phases those include quality tools relevant with lean six sigma methodology. Findings: According to the research results; it is estimated that by implementing improvements and eliminating root causes, wastes; 50% performance increase is possible in maintenance related effectiveness. Lean philosophy and six sigma methodology has high improvement potential on maintenance processes; also successful with gaining on the eliminating of defects and consequently increasing the economical outputs. Research limitations/implications: This research is limited with the experience and information from real case companies, information from relevant scientific books and theory from scientific databases. Practical implications: Lean six sigma methodology can be applied appropriately for improving the quality of the maintenance system and maintenance activities those will induce maintenance effectiveness as consequently. More effective maintenance system means decrease in the maintenance related cost, decrease in the maintenance related time due to increase in the speed and increase in the maintenance related quality. Originality/value: The originality of this research work base on implementation of advanced quality tools in DMAIC phases on maintenance subsystem and studying the quality of maintenance in multi perspective scale. © International OCSCO World Press. All rights reserved. 2015.