Kickoff Meeting Template

A Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Kick-off Meeting is the formal launch of a process improvement project. It sets the tone, aligns stakeholders, and ensures everyone understands the project’s purpose, scope, and expectations before diving into the DMAIC phases.

📄 Purpose of the Kick-off Meeting

  • Alignment: Brings the sponsor, process owner, team members, and stakeholders together.

  • Clarity: Reviews the project charter, objectives, and business case.

  • Engagement: Builds buy-in and enthusiasm for the improvement effort.

  • Expectations: Defines roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols.

  • Planning: Outlines the timeline, milestones, and next steps.

🧩 Typical Agenda

  1. Welcome & Introductions – Sponsor or Champion opens the meeting.

  2. Project Overview – Review of the charter (problem statement, goals, scope, business case).

  3. DMAIC Roadmap – Explain how the methodology will guide the project.

  4. Roles & Responsibilities – Clarify who is doing what (Champion, Belt, Process Owner, SMEs).

  5. Timeline & Milestones – Present high-level schedule and critical checkpoints.

  6. Communication Plan – How updates will be shared (reports, meetings, dashboards).

  7. Risks & Constraints – Discuss known challenges and mitigation strategies.

  8. Q&A and Discussion – Allow stakeholders to raise concerns or suggestions.

  9. Next Steps – Confirm immediate actions and schedule the first working session.

✅ Value in Practice

  • Builds trust and confidence with stakeholders.

  • Prevents misunderstandings by clarifying scope and expectations early.

  • Creates a shared vision of success.

  • Sets a professional tone for disciplined project execution.

Takeaway: The LSS Kick-off Meeting is the launchpad for the project—it ensures everyone is aligned, motivated, and ready to move forward with clarity and purpose.