Six Sigma: literature review and implications for future research

There has been considerable number of papers published related to six sigma applications in manufacturing and service organizations. however, very few studies are done on reviewing the literature of six sigma in all the areas including manufacturing, construction, education, financial service, bpos and healthcare etc. considering the contribution of six sigma in recent time, a more comprehensive review is presented in this paper. the authors have reviewed six sigma literatures in the way that would help research academicians and practitioners to take a closer look at the growth, development, and applications of this technique. the authors have reviewed various journal papers and suggested different schemes of classification. in addition, certain gap areas are identified that would help researchers in further research. the paper has been categorized in four sections. section one & two present introduction to six sigma and preamble to literature review respectively. section three presents classification of six sigma papers based on research methodology & research contents. section four presents key findings, conclusion and areas for future research.