Statistical thinking and its role for industrial engineers and managers in the 21st century

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the vital linkage between six sigma and statistical thinking. The paper also explains the key characteristics required for statistical thinking and some of the common barriers in the implementation of the key principles of statistical thinking.Design/methodology/approachThe objectives of the paper have been achieved in several ways. The paper provides the key principles of statistical thinking and then discusses the possible reasons for lack of statistical thinking in modern organizations. The paper then illustrates the linkage between the statistical principles and six sigma. The tools and techniques of six sigma used within statistical thinking are also highlighted in the paper.FindingsThe key findings of this work include the relationship between the two key powerful methodologies: six sigma and statistical thinking, reasons for lack of applications of statistical thinking in organizations, the future role of managers and engineers in companies with regard to statistical thinking era and the commonalities in the application of tools and techniques between these two methodologies.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper needs more justification through surveys and case examples and this will be the future step of this study. In fact, one of the co‐authors is currently conducting a survey in the UK organizations to investigate the relationship between statistical thinking and six sigma.Practical implicationsThe paper is very practical in nature and it does yield a great value to those people who are currently embarking on six sigma program, especially at senior manager and executive levels.Originality/valueVery little is published in the field of statistical thinking in the UK academic world. In fact, there is a cognitive gap in this field and this paper certainly forms a good platform for further research that will enable to bridge the gap.