What is the difference between Lean Six Sigma and PRINCE2?

Project managers today are often using PRINCE2 to manage their projects in an efficient and structured way. They may not immediately think of Lean Six Sigma, which is mainly known as a methodology for process improvement and optimisation. Yet the Lean Six Sigma methodology offers significant advantages over traditional project management methods. In this blog, we take a closer look at the differences between the two methods and explain how they can complement each other.

Lean Six Sigma and PRINCE2 are two different methodologies, each with its own origins, objectives, and principles. PRINCE2 was developed in the UK in the 1990s as a structured approach to project management. Lean Six Sigma, on the other hand, combines two distinct methodologies: Lean, which originated in Japanese industry (notably through the Toyota Production System) and focuses on eliminating waste and improving flow, and Six Sigma, which was developed by Motorola in the 1980s and focuses on reducing variation and improving quality.

Lean Six Sigma and Prince2: different objectives

PRINCE2 focuses on efficient project management through structured planning, monitoring and control. This project management methodology provides a framework to deliver projects on time and on budget, with an emphasis on project management processes and documentation.

Lean Six Sigma places particular emphasis on improving processes by reducing waste and controlling variability while executing projects. In this way, as a project manager, you have a significant impact on the quality and effectiveness of your project results.

Other methodologies

PRINCE2 provides an overall structured approach with principles, themes and processes for project management, including project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and closure. At the start of your project, the outcome is usually already known.

Lean Six Sigma uses the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve & Control) methodology for process improvement. It emphasises data-driven decision-making and statistical analysis, focusing on measurable results. When you define a Lean Six Sigma project, the outcome is usually still unknown.

… yet complementary

Although the approaches of Lean Six Sigma and PRINCE2 differ, they can be perfectly complementary for you as a project manager. On top of the structured project management methods of PRINCE2, Lean Six Sigma, with its process optimisation and quality management, offers valuable benefits for organisations that want to run successful projects. In this way, you create a more comprehensive and complete framework for effective project management and gain the following key strengths:

• Added value: Lean Six Sigma focuses on identifying and eliminating waste and variation in processes. This leads to more efficient and effective project execution.
• Quality management: Lean Six Sigma places strong emphasis on delivering high-quality products or services and helps identify and address quality issues within projects.
• Data-driven decision-making: Lean Six Sigma makes extensive use of statistical analysis and data to inform decisions. This increases the accuracy and effectiveness of decisions at different project stages.
• Continuous improvement: Lean Six Sigma promotes a culture of continuous improvement. This means that organisations are constantly striving for better performance and results.
• Focus on measurable results: While PRINCE2 focuses exclusively on project management processes, Lean Six Sigma additionally focuses on optimising the execution of processes within projects, leading to improved project results.

Become a Lean Six Sigma project manager

With Lean Six Sigma project management, you gain the tools to not only manage your projects effectively but also optimise the processes within them. This powerful combination can deliver significant benefits to your organisation, including cost savings, enhanced customer satisfaction, and a stronger competitive edge.

Ready to learn more? Get in touch with us today! We will work with you to explore how Lean Six Sigma can add value to your projects and drive measurable results.