An exploratory study of critical success factors in Lean Six Sigma 4.0 implementation: the people, processes and technology perspective through DEMATEL-ISM approach

Purpose Lean Six Sigma 4.0 (LSS 4.0) represents a significant advancement in process optimization by integrating technology and data-driven approaches to achieve comprehensive excellence. Organizations worldwide, across both developed and developing regions, are increasingly adopting LSS 4.0 to drive substantial improvements. This study aims to identify and analyze the critical success factors (CSFs) that influence the successful adoption of LSS 4.0. These CSFs play a crucial role in ensuring its effective implementation. Design/methodology/approach An extensive literature review identified 35 success factors for LSS 4.0. A survey conducted among experts revealed 17 CSFs that significantly impact the success rate of LSS 4.0. The integrated Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory – Interpretive Structural Modeling (DEMATEL-ISM) technique was used to identify and analyze the relationships among these CSFs. Additionally, the CSFs were categorized within the framework of People, Processes and Technology (PPT). Findings The integrated DEMATEL-ISM approach suggests that Management commitment and Leadership are the most influential factors affecting the success of LSS 4.0 implementation. In addition, the study introduced four tiers LSS 4.0 implementation model, i.e. foundational/leadership factor, technology integration and upgradation-related factors, execution-related factor and outcomes/feedback-related factors. The study further categorizes the CSFs into three dimensions: People, Processes and Technology. It suggests that people-related factors influence more than processes and technology in LSS 4.0 success. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to identify and assess the relationships among the most CSFs related to PPT that affect the implementation and success rate of LSS 4.0 in an organization. The integrated DEMATEL-ISM approach offers a hierarchical model and their relationships among the factors that contribute to the success of LSS 4.0 implementation.