Communication Planning

In Lean Six Sigma (LSS), communications planning ensures that the right people get the right information at the right time—keeping projects aligned, stakeholders engaged, and resistance minimized. It’s a strategic activity that supports every phase of DMAIC, especially Define and Control.

📣 What Is a Communications Plan in LSS?

A communications plan is a structured document that outlines:

• Who needs to be informed (stakeholders, team members, sponsors)

• What information they need (status, risks, decisions)

• When and how often they should receive updates

• How the information will be delivered (email, meetings, dashboards)

• Why the communication matters (purpose and expected outcome)

It’s often built as a simple spreadsheet or matrix and evolves throughout the project.

🧠 Why It Matters in Lean Six Sigma

• Prevents misalignment: Keeps everyone on the same page across DMAIC phases

• Builds trust: Transparent updates reduce resistance and foster buy-in

• Accelerates decisions: Timely communication avoids delays and confusion

• Supports sustainability: Reinforces new behaviors and controls post-implementation

📌 Example Use Across DMAIC

• Define: Kickoff meeting, charter approval, stakeholder alignment

• Measure: Data collection updates, MSA results

• Analyze: Root cause findings, risk discussions

• Improve: Pilot test results, solution rollout plans

• Control: Control plan handoff, dashboard reporting, SOP updates

🔑 Takeaway

Communications planning in LSS is not just logistics—it’s strategic engagement. It ensures that stakeholders are informed, involved, and aligned throughout the improvement journey. A well-executed plan turns passive observers into active supporters.