E M 570 Systems Improvement: Integrating TOC, Lean, and Six Sigma

Course Description

This course aims to teach leveraging Theory of Constraints, Lean, and Six Sigma to achieve integrated systems-level improvement.

The Theory of Constraints (TOC) is used for identifying a system’s limiting factor and focusing efforts to eliminate that constraint in order to improve throughput, reduce inventory, or lower operating expenses. Next, Six Sigma is a problem-solving methodology that uses the structured approach of Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control to reduce variability. Finally, Lean is a management approach that focuses on continuous improvement and respect for people in order to improve the performance of a system by eliminating waste.

Faculty Contact: etm@wsu.edu
Semester Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Location: Global Campus

Course meets at times posted via web conferencing software.

Course Objectives

Students will learn to synergistically apply TOC to identifying what to improve, the Six Sigma structured problems solving approach to reduce variability, and Lean tools for reducing waste and managing continuous improvement. They will also learn workforce engagement is the key to long-term system improvement.

Learning Outcomes

Upon satisfactory completion of the course, students will be able to:

Apply the Theory of Constraints to improve the throughput of a system
Apply Lean Tools to reduce waste in a system
Apply Six Sigma problems solving techniques to reduce variability
Engage their workforce to ensure they are healthy, happy, and productive
Improve systems by integrating TOC, Lean, and Six Sigma methodologies
Develop a management approach that integrates TOC, Six Sigma, and Lean that promotes workforce engagement.

Course Topics

Theory of Constraints
Lean
Six Sigma
Workforce Engagement

Request More Information

To find out more, please fill in the form or email etm@wsu.edu.