Sustainable Performance > FAQ

The difference is in the holistic approach to managing the organization. Our SPM methodology brings together frameworks for management systems (e.g., ISO 9001), methodologies (e.g., Lean Six Sigma), tools (quality and statistical tools), and behaviors (e.g., inspiring leadership and teamwork) so that they work in concert for the organization. Underlying this integrated approach are the organization’s objectives and its strategy to achieve those objectives effectively and efficiently.

The goal of SPM is to achieve and sustain performance excellence, thus ensuring that business results remain strong over time, in spite of external factors that may impact performance (e.g., economic downturns or unexpected loss of major customers).

Typically, Lean Six Sigma is a methodology used to either design or to improve processes.
Therefore, LSS relates directly to the Design and Improve phases of SPM.
 

The SPM wheel is applied on an ongoing basis because it involves managing the organization’s processes in a continuous fashion. The DMAIC wheel is applied to a project created to improve a specific process; therefore, it is a temporary endeavor to achieve a specific result. To put it differently, the SPM wheel is holistic whereas the DMAIC wheel is focused. Typically, DMAIC belongs to the Improve phase of the SPM wheel.