Book excerpt: If lean manufacturing moves your products through processes faster, and Six Sigma improves their quality, just imagine what combining these two powerful disciplines will do for you! Lean Six Sigma That Works provides the key to transforming your results in any manufacturing environment, giving you detailed, practical processes that let you leave the conference room, and get right to work. A strong and sensible combination of the "why" and the "how," this book gives you a step-by-step improvement plan, plus a thorough understanding of: * cost, cash flow, materials velocity, lead time, balance, waste, and non-value-added processes * value stream mapping and the DMAIC process for solving problems and improving quality profitability * how every form of waste impacts customer satisfaction and the bottom line * and much more Whether you're a seasoned professional, or implementing your first lean sigma project, this invaluable guide offers you a clear path to higher quality, customer loyalty, and increased efficiency.