Best Lean Six Sigma books to read

I often get questions about recommendations for good Lean Six Sigma books. There are many books and the quality varies. Read my favourites here on my blog if you need some inspirational reading on process improvement and change management.

1. Practical books on Lean Six Sigma

These books are suitable for both the beginner and those who are already somewhat familiar with the subject.

1. Martin Brenig-Jones, Jo Dowdall, Lean Six Sigma for Dummies
   • A clear and practical book. Easy to understand for beginners.
2. M.L. George, Lean 6 Sigma, Combining Six Sigma Quality with Lean Speed
   • The book combines the quality techniques of Six Sigma with the speed of Lean, providing a comprehensive guide to improving processes and increasing efficiency.
3. M.L. George, Lean 6 Sigma Pocket Tool book
   • A more detailed guide to easy-to-use tools for managing Lean Six Sigma projects than the previous book.

2. Concrete ideas for managing change

In addition to Lean Six Sigma techniques, you should also learn about change management and change leadership.

1. J.K. Liker, G.L. Convis, The Toyota Way to Lean Leadership
   • This book is my personal favourite. The book delves into Toyota's management model, providing practical guidance for developing Lean leadership and driving long-term change in organizations.
2. J.K. Liker, The Toyota Way, Second Edition: 14 Management Principles from theWorld's Greatest Manufacturer
   • The second edition of the classic presents a revised set of 14 Toyota management principles that have been central to the company's success and can be applied to improving any organisation.
3. G. Eckes, Making Six Sigma Last
   • Perhaps a lesser-known old classic in Europe, but I like the concreteness of the book and the good examples. The book deals with the long-term maintenance and successful integration of Six Sigma initiatives into corporate culture, emphasising the importance of change management and continuous improvement.
4. S. Torkkola, Lean in managing expert work
   • I like the Finnish, self-critical and open style of this book to open up experiences on how Lean thinking can be applied in managing expert work, improving processes and making the organisation more efficient.

3. Extra work if you are already a Green Belt or Black Belt:

 Here are some reading suggestions if you already have experience in a Green or Black Belt role.

1. Memory Jogger books

1. S. Carleton, the Green Belt Memory Jogger A Pocket Guide for Six Sigma DMAIC Success
   • This pocket-sized guide provides practical advice and tools for Six Sigma Green Belt professionals, focusing on the successful application of the DMAIC methodology in projects.
2. S. Carleton, the Black Belt Memory Jogger: A Pocket Guide for Six Sigma DMAIC Success
   • This guide is designed for Six Sigma Black Belt professionals, providing concise and effective instructions and methodologies for using the DMAIC model in complex process improvement projects.

2. The CSSC Lean Six Sigma book

• Council for Six Sigma Certification, Craig Joseph Setter, Six Sigma: AComplete Step-by-Step Guide
  • This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to mastering the Six Sigma methodology, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. The book is a useful resource for beginners and experienced professionals alike.
  • I think it is one of the best books that manages to strike a good balance between not overloading the reader with unnecessary methods and tools, but still covering enough theory for successful practical application. 

3. ASQ Green and Black Belt books

If you are also interested in the Green and Black Belt Lean Six Sigma content defined by the American Society Of Quality (ASQ). These can be explored through the extensive and theory-driven books below:

1. R.A. Munro, M. J. Maio, The Certified Six Sigma Green Belt Handbook
2. T.M.Kubiak, Donald W. Benbow, The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Handbook

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We hope you'll find something on the list that's right for you!

Contact us if you are interested in learning more about Lean Six Sigma or check out our wide range of Lean Six Sigma training courses.

Wishing you an inspiring reading time,

Marja Jaatinen

Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt