LSS System Implementation Roadmap 

Typical implementation takes about two years to fully deploy both ISO 9001 certification and Lean Six Sigma. However, the actual timeline can vary depending on several factors. For example, if your company is already ISO 9001 certified or has mature QMS, you can focus solely on building Lean Six Sigma, which typically takes around one year.  Other factors influencing the duration include organizational size, leadership engagement, resource availability, and the complexity of existing processes.  I work closely with you to tailor the roadmap and pace to fit your company’s unique situation and goals.

Here’s a clear, phased roadmap describing how I can help a typical company develop ISO 9001 certification and implement Lean Six Sigma within one year each (total 2 years):

LSS System Roadmap: ISO 9001 Certification + Lean Six Sigma Implementation (2 Years)

Year 1: Develop and Achieve ISO 9001 Certification

Months 1-3: Assessment & Planning

• Conduct a gap analysis comparing current processes against ISO 9001 requirements

• Identify key compliance and operational risks

• Define scope and objectives of the Quality Management System (QMS)

• Develop project plan with milestones and resource allocation

Months 4-6: Design & Documentation

• Develop or update QMS documentation (policies, procedures, work instructions) aligned with ISO 9001

• Integrate Lean principles where possible to simplify processes and reduce waste

• Establish performance metrics and key process indicators (KPIs)

• Train leadership and key staff on ISO 9001 fundamentals and roles

Months 7-9: Implementation & Training

• Roll out documented processes across the organization

• Conduct internal training on the QMS and Lean basics to build awareness

• Implement internal audit program to check compliance and effectiveness

• Address nonconformities and initiate corrective actions

Months 10-12: Certification Preparation & Audit

• Conduct management review and continual improvement cycles

• Perform internal audits and management reviews for readiness

• Coordinate with external certification body for formal audit

• Achieve ISO 9001 certification

Year 2: Deploy Lean Six Sigma for Continuous Improvement

Months 1-3: Lean Six Sigma Foundation

• Identify high-impact improvement areas through data and ISO 9001 insights

• Train core team on Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green Belt fundamentals

• Establish governance structure for Lean Six Sigma projects (project selection, leadership support)

Months 4-6: Project Execution & Coaching

• Launch initial Six Sigma projects aligned with business priorities (reduce defects, cycle time, costs)

• Provide coaching and mentoring to project teams

• Embed Lean tools such as value stream mapping, 5S, standard work for daily management

Months 7-9: Scale & Integrate

• Expand Lean Six Sigma training to Black Belts and other leaders

• Integrate Lean daily management with the ISO 9001 QMS for operational discipline

• Develop visual management systems and metrics for sustained control

Months 10-12: Sustain & Culture Building

• Establish continuous improvement culture through leadership engagement and communication

• Use audits, coaching, and recognition to reinforce Lean Six Sigma practices

• Review and update processes based on project outcomes

• Prepare for ongoing cycles of improvement beyond initial deployment