Empirical analysis of the relationship between Six Sigma management activities and corporate competitiveness : Focusing on Samsung Group in Korea

Purpose – This study proposes a research model to test whether Six Sigma‐based management activities improve corporate competitiveness in Samsung Group. Design/methodology/approach – The paper's model was validated and its hypotheses tested using structural equation model analysis. Findings – Empirical results showed that Six Sigma activities do indeed contribute to revitalized process management, improved quality, and, finally, lead to corporate competitiveness. Research limitations/implications – The survey data were collected at the individual level, such as GB, BB, MBB, and limited to the affiliated companies of Samsung Group. To obtain more meaningful results, data would be collected at the corporate level and the pool of subjects expanded. However, this paper shows that the four fundamental factors (CEO's will, Communication, Training, and Policy) as well as three substantial factors (Information Utilization, Standardization, and Promotion) are meaningful activities influencing the success of Six Sigma management significantly. Originality/value – The main contribution of this paper lies in the establishment of a causal relationship among Six Sigma activities, process innovation, quality improvement, and company competitiveness, as well as in the proposed managerial implications for Six Sigma projects.