The traditional implementation approach is a major barrier to entry for smaller and mid-sized companies. Smaller and mid-sized organizations can implement Six sigma at a pace where they can actually digest the methodology and achieve benefits without the significant resource commitment and overhead structure of the traditional approach.
Organizations are sometimes able to achieve more impressive benefits than their larger customers.

Scaleable Six Sigma by ISEL Global – How It Works

Below is a brief eight-step process for a Six Sigma green belt certification execution process I recommend for smaller and medium businesses:
1. A Six sigma strategy is developed. The strategy, implementation approach and projects are aligned to the organization's strategic plan and customer requirements. Communication and awareness building are included in this step.

2. Implementation planning is done. Beyond the overall program, this includes defining objectives, scope, goals, priorities, work plans, deliverables, baseline performance, and expected performance/financial improvements for a pool of high-impact Six sigma projects.

3. Team formation and the education plan start at the same time. Background and focus for the teams is provided by the Six sigma strategy definition and implementation planning. Sample issues, data and examples from their actual processes are included in the education that is tailored to business needs.

4. Champion education is where executives learn about the Six sigma process. Executives focus on how to lead, structure, and mentor a successful effort through several exercises.
The same commitment and leadership is needed in smaller and mid-sized companies as it is in larger companies.

5. A group of 25 individuals are required to complete Green Belt certification. Six sigma is the focus of the education but it also includes Kaizen and Lean.
I think a program should stress deployment of the right tools to the right opportunities, because not all problems require a complex statistical approach.
There Is A Better Way
Smaller and mid-sized organizations can achieve results at a more manageable pace with a scaleable approach to Six sigma. The Six sigma deployment model is not practical for every company or organization, and other deployment models should be explored.

The right deployment model can be used to bring smaller and mid-sized companies into the fold.