The term "Six Sigma" refers to. - ANSWER The ability of highly capable processes to
produce output within specification. Specifically, processes that operate within six
sigma quality produce a defect levels below 3.4 defects per (one) million opportunities
(DPMO).
Six Sigma two key methodologies - ANSWER DMAIC & DMADV (both inspired by W.
Deming's Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle)
EXISTING PROCESS OR BUSINESS
DMAIC: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control
NEW PRODUCT OR PROCESS
DMADV: Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify
Define DMAIC - ANSWER: The process improvement GOALS that are consistent with
customer demands & enterprise strategy.
The first that asks leaders to define core processes. In defining the selected project
scope, expectations, resources, and timeliness is important.
Identifies specifically what is part of the project & what is not, & explains the scope of
the project.
Many times the first passes at process documentation are at a general level. Additional
work is often required to adequately understand & correctly document the processes.
, Measure (DMAIC) - ANSWER The current process & collect relevant data for future
comparison.
The Six Sigma approach calls for quantifying & benchmarking the process, from the
Black Belt project manager, using actual data. At a minimum consider the mean or
average dispersion or variation - maybe, even calculate the standard deviation. Trends
& cycles can be very revealing also. Once there is performance data, process
capabilities can be calculated.
Analyze (DMAIC) - ANSWER To confirm relationship & causality of factors. Identify what
the relationship is & try to make sure that all factors have been considered.
Once the project is understood, the baseline performance is documented and verified
that there is real opportunity; then it is time to do the analysis of the process. In this
step, apply statistical tools to validate root causes of problems. Any number of tools and
tests can be used.
The objective is to understand the process to a level that is sufficient to formulate
options for improvement. We should be able to compare the various options with one
another to evaluate the most promising alternatives.
Superficial analysis and understanding will result in unproductive options being
selected, which forces recycling through the process in order to make improvements.
At the other extreme is a thorough analysis of only a few activities.
Improve (DMAIC) - ANSWER Or "Optimize" the process based upon the analysis using
techniques like "Design of Experiments".
During this phase, ideas & solutions are put to work. The Black Belt has discovered &
validated all known root causes for the existing opportunity. Approach requires Black
Belt to identify solutions. There must be checks to assure that the desired results are
being achieved. Some experiments & trials would be necessary to arrive at an optimal
solution. Having said this, it needs to be perceived that all project associates
understand trials & these are truly part of the six sigma approach.
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