Resumen
The aim of this paper is to evaluate the importance of lean and six sigma concepts and techniques on the basis of systematic knowledge gathered from relevant scientific sources, both for discovering supply chain processes where potential waste can occur and for improving the quality of those processes. The paper will first outline the key features and effects of applying lean and six sigma concepts in manufacturing and supply chains. The focus is on the frameworks and potentials of implementing the lean concept in the Republic of Serbia. Then, the possibilities of integrating these concepts into the lean six sigma concept are presented and its role in eliminating defects in business processes. The penultimate part of the paper outlines the key features of lean supply chain while the final part contains the mathematical frameworks for designing six sigma supply chains.