IFN654 Lean Six Sigma


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Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Gardens Point, Internal

Unit code:IFN654
Credit points:12
Pre-requisite:IFN515 or IFQ515. IFN515 or IFQ515 can be studied in the same semester as IFN654
Assumed Knowledge:

Basic knowledge of statistics; knowledge of business process modelling; and basic understanding of IT is assumed knowledge.

Coordinator:Rehan Syed | r.syed@qut.edu.au
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of the teaching period.

Overview

This unit provides a comprehensive introduction to Lean Six Sigma, a rigorous and disciplined methodology, widely used in practice, that uses organisational data and statistical analysis to measure and improve the performance of an organisation's business processes. As a specialisation unit of BPM, it aims to develop learners’ knowledge about different process improvement methodologies and develop specific intermediate skills in solving real-world business problems. The unit addresses the key concepts, methods and techniques in LSS including inclusive design, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on sustainability and waste. In particular, it focuses on introducing the Six Sigma approach known as DMAIC while incorporating the principles of Lean Management. The unit content is aligned with the universally accepted Lean Six Sigma Body of Knowledge for Green Belts, developed by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

  1. Analyse process-related issues and develop innovative solutions for business problems using Lean Six Sigma approach.
  2. Apply basic and intermediate statistical analysis tools to develop efficient process solutions.
  3. Illustrate and explain the relationship between Lean, Six Sigma and BPM.
  4. Manage Lean Six Sigma projects effectively.
  5. Communicate professionally in written, oral, and visual formats.
  6. Work efficiently in a group and individually.

Content

This unit provides a comprehensive coverage of the Six Sigma methodology and will introduce important principles and the main approaches to process design and improvement. Particular emphasis will be given to introducing the DMAIC approach (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) while incorporating the principles of Lean Management. Hands-on case studies, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives on waste and sustainability, will provide you with direct exposure to common process issues that can be fixed through the application of the DMAIC approach. Various statistical analysis techniques will be presented throughout the course and put into practice via exercises. The process analysis may include the UN sustainability goals associated with waste management (Goals 8 & 12), where applicable.

The unit content is aligned with the universally accepted Lean Six Sigma Body of Knowledge for Green Belts, developed by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (http://iassc.org). At the end of the unit, students will receive instructions on how to prepare for the certification exam based on this body of knowledge. The certification exam will not be covered by this unit. 

This unit will develop specific skills for business process analysis and improvement via statistical analysis, as well as general skills in critical thinking, teamwork, presentation, and technical writing.

Learning Approaches

The content of the unit is delivered through lectures, tutorials, case studies, and the QUT Blackboard site. Lectures cover theoretical aspects of the unit, and practical sessions provide an opportunity to solve practical exercises, based on the current week's lecture. Tutorial staff will be available to provide assistance.

The unit emphasises a 'hands-on' approach to learning through the illustration of new concepts via worked examples and demonstrations. The concepts introduced are presented in business scenarios. During the practical sessions, you are encouraged to work in groups.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

The first assessment item is a group assessment based on the material covered in the lectures and tutorials. The related tasks will be discussed during these contact hours. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of the tasks. Selected supporting resources will be provided on the unit homepage. A marking guide will be available for this assignment. A detailed marking will provide you with comprehensive feedback.

Tutors are available during the tutorials and consultation hours to clarify or elaborate on the assignment content and provide constructive feedback.

For the final exam you will be referred to the Faculty's formal 'Review of exam' procedures.

Assessment

Overview

The assessment in this unit has been designed to provide you with a scaffolded learning experience.
A written assignment will be submitted to the LMS at the set deadline. Additional support for all assessment will be provided throughout the semester. 

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Case Study

Lean Six Sigma Project

You will be provided with a realistic scenario describing a business process that requires improvement. You will need to analyse this scenario and deploy a variety of techniques from Lean Six Sigma to improve the business process.

You will submit a detailed process analysis report and have to be prepared to present your results in the classroom. You will receive formative feedback on your progress during tutorials and consultations with the teaching team.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Weight: 50
Individual/Group: Individual and group
Due (indicative): Week 10
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6

Assessment: Examination (written)

Final written exam

Weight: 50
Individual/Group: Individual
Due (indicative): During central examination period
Central exam duration: 3:10 - Including 10 minute perusal
Exam Period
Related Unit learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.

The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Resource Materials

Recommended text(s)

  • Open Source Six Sigma, "The Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt eBook", Third Edition, Lean Six Sigma Belt Series (available online from https://www.opensourcesixsigma.com)
  • T. Pyzdek, "The Six Sigma handbook - a complete guide for green belts, black belts, and managers at all levels", McGraw-Hill (2003)
  • L. Swift, S. Piff, "Quantitative methods for business, management and finance", Third Edition, Palgrave Macmillan

Risk Assessment Statement

There are no unusual health or safety risks associated with this unit. You will be made aware of evacuation procedures and assembly areas in the first few lectures. In the event of a fire alarm sounding, or on a lecturer's instruction, you should leave the room and assemble in the designated area which will be indicated to you. You should be conscious of your health and safety at all times whilst on campus or in the field.

Course Learning Outcomes

This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.

IN25 Graduate Certificate in Business Process Management

  1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of Business Process Management discipline
    Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Case Study, Examination (written)
  2. Investigate and apply BPM specific process analysis, design, and problem-solving skills to develop inclusive solutions to address complex business problems
    Relates to: ULO2, Case Study, Examination (written)
  3. Work effectively in both self-directed and collaborative contexts
    Relates to: ULO6, Case Study, Examination (written)
  4. Communicate professionally in written, visual and oral formats.
    Relates to: ULO5, Case Study, Examination (written)
  5. Demonstrate professional and ethical aptitude, sustainability values and judgement when employing BPM knowledge and skills
    Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Case Study, Examination (written)