This study examines how Lean Six Sigma (LSS) can support the implementation of Industry 5.0 and its three pillars to improve progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It seeks to clarify the overlaps between LSS and Industry 5.0, develop an integrated conceptual model connecting both frameworks to SDGs 8, 9, 12 and 13, and demonstrate its practical use through a Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC)-based case study in manufacturing.
A structured conceptual literature review was conducted to synthesize and critically analyze existing studies on LSS, Industry 5.0, and SDGs. The review was used to identify conceptual synergies and research gaps that informed the development of the proposed human-centric, sustainable, and resilient enhancement (H-SURE) framework. The proposed framework was subsequently illustrated through a DMAIC-based single-company case study to demonstrate its practical implementation within an Industry 5.0 manufacturing environment.
The analysis shows that LSS and Industry 5.0 strongly align in strategic orientation, waste reduction, human engagement and continuous improvement, while differing in regulatory readiness and technological integration. The conceptual H-SURE framework indicates that LSS offers a structured pathway to operationalize Industry 5.0 and advance SDGs 8, 9, 12 and 13. The case study demonstrates that integrating both frameworks reduces defects and energy use, strengthens human-machine collaboration, increases employee empowerment and enhances operational resilience.
This study offers a comprehensive model linking LSS, Industry 5.0 and the SDGs, addressing a significant gap in the literature on how continuous improvement methodologies can enable human-centric and sustainable industrial transformation. By integrating a conceptual H-SURE framework with empirical insights from a DMAIC-driven case study, the study provides both theoretical advancement and practical guidance for organizations seeking to transition from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 while strengthening their contributions to global sustainability goals.
