The Extent of Implementing Six Sigma Approach As Entrance to Reduce the Cost of Quality in Palestinian Shareholding Industrial Companies

Abstract

This study aims at identifying the availability of the ingredients of implementing six sigma approach in Palestinian shareholding industrial companies and the extent of the contribution of applying six sigma approach in reducing quality costs, in addition to measuring the impact of size and profitability of the company on implementing six sigma approach and identifying difficulties that prevent applying six sigma approach. To achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher designed a questionnaire and distributed it to CFOs and sections of quality in companies. 13 industrial public shareholding companies represented the study sample. The results revealed that the ingredients of implementing six sigma approach are available at industrial companies, which indicates that Palestinian industrial companies have the appropriate environment for using six sigma approach. The results showed that companies are using six sigma approach to reduce the cost of quality. Also, the results showed no effect of the size and profitability of the company on applying six sigma approach. Furthermore, there were difficulties that limit applying six sigma approach. The researcher has offered a number of recommendations, the most important of which are: applying six sigma approach with all its ingredients with a high degree of commitment and endeavoring to get all the benefits realized from applying six sigma approach.