A systematic literature review to assess leadership’s role, traits, skills, competencies and styles for design for Lean Six Sigma program success

Purpose This systematic literature review aims to synthesise, organise and structure the stock of knowledge relating to leadership and design for Lean Six Sigma (DFLSS) and to understand leadership’s role, traits, skills, competencies and styles within the context for DFLSS program success. Design/methodology/approach The research is based on a systematic literature review of 67 papers that were published on leadership and DFLSS, demonstrating the importance of leadership for successful DFLSS programs. Findings The key findings show that leadership plays a critical role in launching and sustaining a DFLSS program in organisations, while illustrating the leadership traits, skills, competencies and styles that are more conducive to a successful DFLSS program. Originality/value The study has identified several gaps in the literature from a practical approach and an empirical validation of the critical factors of leadership when applying and supporting DFLSS efforts supporting future initiatives.