Lean Six Sigma is a method for improving performance by systematically removing waste and reducing variation that relies on a collaborative team effort. Increased performance and decreased process variation contribute to defect reduction and improvements in profits, employee morale, and product or service quality.

The primary difference between Lean and Six Sigma is that Lean is less focused entirely on manufacturing, but often shapes every facet of a business. Lean Six Sigma combines these two approaches, which creates a powerful toolkit for addressing waste reduction.

Define, measure, analyze, improve, and control are the five principles and phases of Lean Six Sigma. They're the steps practitioners take to create more efficient processes and a workplace culture that's focused on continuous improvement.