What does the term 'lean' refer to in the context of Six Sigma?

In the context of Six Sigma, 'lean' specifically refers to an approach that aims to reduce waste and improve process efficiency. This methodology is centered on identifying and eliminating activities that do not add value to the product or service from the customer's perspective. By streamlining processes, organizations can deliver higher quality products or services more quickly and at a lower cost.

Lean principles emphasize continuous improvement and operational excellence, which are instrumental in enhancing overall performance. By focusing on waste reduction—measured in terms of time, materials, and resources—lean complements the Six Sigma focus on quality and variation reduction, creating a powerful strategy for organizations aiming for operational effectiveness.

Other options may not fully encapsulate the essence of lean. While maximizing profits, increasing product variety, or enhancing customer service may be outcomes of implementing lean practices effectively, they do not define what lean actually means in this context. Lean is fundamentally about process efficiency and eliminating waste to create more value for customers.