Analysis and prioritization of Lean Six Sigma enablers with environmental facets using best worst method: A case of Indian MSMEs

Abstract Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a prominent role in economic growth because of their significant contribution in terms of manufacturing, sales, and development in any country. Improvements in product quality, waste reduction, environmental measures, green product development, and cost optimization have enforced MSMEs to adopt sustainable development approaches. Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is one of the robust methods that reduce waste, variation, emission, and energy in any system. It is indispensable to relook the enablers of environmental LSS to assess sustainability through the successful implementation of this eco-friendly approach. In this context, the present study aims to investigate and prioritize the enablers which facilitate the effective implementation of environmental LSS in MSMEs. Extensive literature and expert’s opinions are used to investigate the environmental LSS enablers and grouped them as per their appropriate traits using Exploratory Factor Analysis. The final screening of grouped enablers is done through Importance-index analysis and corrected item minus total correlation method. For prioritization of finalized enablers, a robust decision-making technique, Best Worst Method, is employed with a practical case of Indian MSMEs. The research outcomes reveal that strategic-based enablers are leading in nature, followed by environmental-based enablers. Moreover, current results are validated through the Analytical Hierarchy Process and Analytical Network Process. The present research outcomes are also in good agreement with case organization officials. This study expedites the managers of case organization with prominent enablers, which will help in planning and successful execution of environmental LSS.