Leading Six Sigma: A Step-by-Step Guide Based on Experience with GE and Other Six Sigma Companies

Inclusion of Six Sigma in Budgeting Processes

Most organizations that implement Six Sigma do not have the implementation costs or benefits in their budget at the time they decide to launch. This happens simply because most didn't realize in the previous year, when the current year's budget was developed, that they would be implementing Six Sigma now. Therefore, Six Sigma is generally launched with special funding allocated by senior leadership. This is certainly acceptable to get started, but as organizations begin to formally manage the effort it is critically important that Six Sigma be included in their key budgeting processes.

This inclusion is important for several reasons. First, leadership needs to make sure that Six Sigma receives the ...