Leaderboard

Replication followed by benchmarking is one of the most effective and the easiest methods for lean six sigma project identification. The greatest advantage here is that we get to replicate the projects with proven success and results. However, if we seek replication of patented products or processes then we may face legal challenge due to violation or infringement of laws related to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Let's see below the major challenges and strategies or approaches to overcome these challenges: Major Challenges in Replication of Patented Products (DFSS) or Processes (Six Sigma): 1. The Legal Aspect: The IPR laws limit us to replicate the design or technology used behind a patented product or process. Failing to comply this our company may face lawsuits and loss of reputation. 2. The Innovation Aspect: Companies that heavily rely on replication may miss the huge opportunities of inhouse innovation. Different companies have different goals and strategies, in these scenarios replicating technology or process patents dealing with specific issues or goal of other company may not be relevant to us. Instead, the companies should train people and start an innovation drive of their own. 3.The Information Aspect: Generally, the detailed information on "How?" part is missing behind patented products or processes. In this case replicating the exact concept is a challenge. Strategies & Approaches to Overcome Challenges on Replication of Patented Products (DFSS) or Processes (Six Sigma): 1. Adaptation of Principles Instead of Process or Technology: Instead of replicating exact process or product design, can we think of replicating principles behind? This helps with avoiding legal risk as well as capturing the essence of patent technology. 2. Collaborate with Patent Filing Organization: In the cases where it is difficult to replicate, we can think of collaborating with patent filing organization through licensing agreement. This is the best approach when we do not have internal capability to replicate the exact patent technology. 3. There are Multiple Solutions to a Single Problem: While we know this fact, we can train & encourage inhouse team to innovate different solutions to the same problem. 4. Innovation In Six Sigma: In Six Sigma Projects, typically in Improve phase when we explore different improvement initiatives, bringing in innovative thinking and methodologies (exp. SCAMPER) can help the teams identify innovative solutions. This way we can avoid necessity to replication to patent technology and also get the end result. To summarize, we have strategies like collaboration, adaptation, innovation, inhouse R&D and capabilities development to deal with the challenges.