In analysing the performance of complex sociotechnical systems, of particular interest is the inevitable and inherent variability that these systems exhibit, but can normally tolerate, in successfully operating in the real world. Knowing how that variability propagates and impacts the total function mix then allows an understanding of emergent behaviours. This interdependence, however, is not readily apparent from normal linear business process flow diagrams. An alternative approach to exploring the operability of complex systems, that addresses these limitations, is the functional resonance analysis method (FRAM). This is a way of visualising a system’s behaviour, by defining it as an array of functions, with all the interactions and interdependencies that are needed for it to work successfully. Until now this methodology has mainly been employed as a qualitative mind map. This paper describes a new development of the FRAM visualisation software that allows the quantification of the extent and effects of this functional variability. It then sets out to demonstrate its application in a practical, familiar test case. The example chosen is the complex sociotechnical system involved in a Formula 1 pit stop. This has shown the potential of the application and provided some interesting insights into the observed performances.

Research has highlighted a need for a specific and practical implementation framework for deploying Lean Six Sigma (LSS) in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The success of LSS implementation in SMEs is highly dependent on the extent to which an LSS deployment programme addresses the specific properties of SMEs. In this study we have evaluated an existing framework for Six Sigma implementation for SMEs [Kumar, M., Antony, J., & Tiwari, M. K. (2011). Six Sigma implementation framework for SMEs – a roadmap to manage and sustain the change. International Journal of Production Research, 49(18), 5449–5467] using a multi-method triangulation approach. The objectives of this study were firstly to strengthen the foundations of the existing framework by uncovering evidence for some of its elements and, secondly, to identify the proposed revisions to the framework, especially focussed on its application in manufacturing SMEs. The results of our study are a collection of confirmations and revision proposals for the framework, leading to a revised conceptual framework.