CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS OF LEAN SIX SIGMA IN SMES: A STRUCTUREDREVIEW

Abstract

This study aims to identify and synthesize the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) influencing Lean Six Sigma (LSS)implementation in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conductedusing the PRISMA framework to identify, screen, and evaluate relevant studies retrieved from the Scopusdatabase. From an initial pool of 164 articles, 31 studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected fordetailed analysis. Descriptive, bibliometric, and thematic analyses were employed to examine publicationtrends, industrial sectors, research methodologies, and dominant implementation factors. The findingsindicate that Lean Six Sigma research remains highly concentrated in the manufacturing sector, while studiesfocusing specifically on SMEs remain relatively limited. The review identified several dominant Critical SuccessFactors, including top management commitment, employee involvement, training and education, customerfocus, organizational culture, strategic alignment, continuous improvement orientation, resource allocation,and technology readiness. The findings suggest that successful Lean Six Sigma implementation in SMEsdepends not only on technical tools and methodologies but also on organizational readiness and managerialcapability. This study contributes to the literature by providing an updated mapping of Lean Six Sigma researchwithin SME contexts and offers practical guidance for SME practitioners seeking to implement continuousimprovement initiatives effectively.