Reference no: EM133023462

Six Sigma Case Study: Starbucks

In a matter of 40 years, Starbucks has gone from a stand-alone shop in Seattle to the largest coffeehouse chain in the world. No matter where you live, chances are you can find a nearby location, full with coffee enthusiasts and aficionados, alike. When entering a Starbucks, customers experience a sophisticated atmosphere. The combination of roasted beans, calming jazz music, and young professionals typing away on their notebooks creates an all too familiar sense. Yet, Starbucks has not always been a household name that teens and parents rejoice to.

Traditional Coffeehouses vs. Starbucks

When you think coffeehouse, you imagine a calm, relaxing environment. Maybe you picture yourself enjoying a flavorful coffee while catching up on some emails. While this image is common for most coffeehouses, Starbucks is slowly beginning to differ. As the corporation grows, it's follower base forces it to adapts to the speed and accuracy that customers now expect. Similar to fast-food restaurants, customers want their ideal coffee, made fresh, within minutes.

Question:

1. Out of six sigmas', what core is to be used in Starbucks?

2. What strategies that the company will use to make Starbucks more productive and efficient in serving coffee?

3. How can six sigma improve efficiency in restaurant?