Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a systematic literature review and its analysis concerning a possible framework, compatibility, drivers and barriers for integrating three manufacturing strategies – Lean, Green and Six Sigma. In particular, analyzing current proposals and identifying the literature gaps in the existing literature from which future research directions and challenges have been suggested for developing a specific integrated framework for the Indian manufacturing industry. Design/methodology/approach This study explores manufacturing strategic area in depth through literature review, which will point out to the better understanding of the compatibility and impact of these initiatives through the conceptual framework, on the performance of the manufacturing organization. Findings The review of shortlisted articles indicates that Lean, Green and Six Sigma (LGSS) strategies help the manufacturing organizations to compete in global markets through the impact of a sustainability strategy for their business. Various researchers provide evidence of challenges like cost reduction, quality improvement, on-time delivery, changing needs of the customers and scarce resources that can be overcome through these strategies to achieve overall business objectives. Research limitations/implications In this research, only works of literature related to LGSS and sustainability have been studied so information related to linking between these strategies in manufacturing industries is limited. Practical implications Help the manufacturing practitioners to deploy three strategies simultaneously in an environment when the linking among LGSS methods in manufacturing industries has not been established. Hence simultaneous deployment of these three strategies helps the organization to boost its operational and environmental performance. Social implications The strategies, LGSS, will be adopted in the operational management to reduce both waste and pollution which will definitely help to society. It will highlight the need for cost effective and easy to implement solutions as well as brand building, which is one of the top incentives for LGSS, highlighting the importance of public perception of how companies operate. Originality/value An integrated framework of the LGSS will help the Indian manufacturing industries to improve performance and competitiveness in the global market.

PurposeThis article aims to explore synergies between Lean, Green and Six Sigma practices in order to propose an integrated LGSS framework for continuous and incremental improvement in the Indian manufacturing industries. The three-dimensional LGSS framework seeks to provide various combinations and support operational, financial, environmental and social needs.Design/methodology/approachIn the research method, first, the current problems faced by Indian manufacturing industries are considered and proposition of a conceptual framework that qualitatively integrates synergistic aspects of Lean, Green and Six Sigma practices, and second, the framework is checked by a survey taken from 203 Indian firms by using SPSS-AMOS.FindingsThe hypothesized result suggests that the positive impact of integrated practices on firm performance in terms of operational, financial, social and environmental outcomes. It also provides a systemic and holistic approach to problem-solving through constant and incremental enhancement in the manufacturing sector.Research limitations/implicationsIn this research, only Indian manufacturing industries have been studied but can be extending into different geographical areas and sectors. Future research is also possible for different behavior and characteristics of companies that can lead to recommending strategies on how companies can improve performance. Most importantly, future research can try to understand which specific practice can contribute to competitive advantage and business success.Practical implicationsManufacturing firms that want to improve environmental sustainability should implement integrated LGSS practices into their supply chain. The set of combined practices improves operational, social, economical and environmental benefits.Social implicationsThe research presents an integrated approach of LSS for the manufacturing industry which leads their business processes to achieve economic sustainability through continuous growth and improved operational efficiency. Manufacturing industries result in outcomes like reduced cost, lead time, improved quality, sustainable market position, profitability, customer satisfaction, etc.Originality/valueThis research is different from previous studies because it integrates Lean, Green and Six Sigma practices into a unique framework that fulfills a specific need of the Indian manufacturing sector that guides operational, social, environmental and financial issues in Indian industries.

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