A review of six sigma implementation frameworks and related literature

This paper presents a review of Six Sigma focusing on implementation frameworks/models in the literature. The work is a part of a research project aimed at developing a Lean Six Sigma implementation framework for Indonesian SMEs. Most implementation frameworks examined used the concept of critical success factors in their development. In this paper, the authors examine four implementation frameworl{s found ill the literature from two perspectives. Firstly, from a critical success factor perspective and secondly from the perspective of Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory. None of the frameworks examined comprehensively address issues suggested by Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory. The most robust framework appears to be the Olle developed by Burton and Sams. Our research suggests a customized implementation framework needs to be designed for Indoncsian SMEs based on Rogers' diffusion of innovations approach, but also drawing from litcraturc on critical success factors.