Enhancing Six Sigma Implementation Through Human Resource Management

While many companies have implemented Six Sigma and claim that they have achieved remarkable benefits from their investment, not all Six Sigma implementations yield the positive results promoted by its advocates. Human resource management (HRM) is recognized as a critical factor that influences the adoption of Six Sigma in organizations. Using data collected from 95 manufacturing plants that practice Six Sigma, this study investigates the role of three quality-oriented HRM practices—employee involvement, employee training, and employee performance and recognition—in Six Sigma implementation. Results of this study indicate that the three HRM practices significantly affect the use of Six Sigma methodology. In addition, it is found that Six Sigma role structure (that is, the human infrastructure for Six Sigma using the Six Sigma Green and Black Belt system) integrates with the traditional quality-oriented HRM practices in supporting the use of Six Sigma methodology.