Out of the Crisis, W. Edwards Deming, 1982

Chapters 1-2, 6-9, 11 and 16 provide a good introduction to the science of variability and quality.  The author’s unique personality makes this a memorable work, even though some content is repeated and some of the author’s personal views must be ignored or discounted.

 

The Goal, Eli Goldratt and Jeff Cox, 1984

This 300 page novel illustrates how a sequence of variable events operates and how it can be managed effectively.

 

The Toyota Way, Jeffrey K. Liker, 2004

Chapters 1-4, 7-20 describe the power, principles and components of the Toyota Way.

 

The Six Sigma Way, Peter S. Pande, Robert P. Neuman and Roland R. Cavanaugh, 2000

Chapters 1-5 provide an executive overview of Six Sigma and why a firm might invest in this approach to operations excellence.  Chapters 6-11 outline a common approach to staffing and organization.  Chapters 12-18 provide a high level overview of the major tools and processes used in Six Sigma.

 

The Six Sigma Handbook, Thomas Pyzdek and Paul Keller, 3^rd ed., 2010

Chapters 1-4 outline the management of a Six Sigma organization and projects.  Chapters 5-12 provide a comprehensive explanation of Six Sigma tools and techniques.  A modest amount of technical statistics is included.  Often used as a textbook for Six Sigma black belt courses.

 

Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbox, George, Rowlands, Price and Maxey, 2005

Quick reference guide to 100 commonly used tools.  Best used by individuals with lean six sigma training and experience or significant statistics background.