Six Sigma's critical success factors and toolbox

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to put forward and classify the critical success factors (CSF) of Six Sigma implementation, as well as the tools-techniques that it utilizes in all the phases of the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) structured methodology. Design/methodology/approach - A literature review of Six Sigma's CSF has been realized and also an attempt to connect them with the enablers of European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM). A literature review of the tools and techniques utilized follows and a categorization of them according to the phase of the DMAIC. Findings - The paper has collected a list of 32 CSF which were classified according to the five EFQM enablers, and the soft-hard differentiation. A list of 39 tools/techniques used in the different phases of DMAIC and the ISO 13053-1 suggestions has also been referred. Originality/value - The final classifications of CSF and techniques of Six Sigma methodology could be a valuable tool for Six Sigma academics and professionals to understand and implement the methodology in the appropriate way.