Six Sigma Approach – An Overview For Beginners

Six Sigma eliminates defects and non-value-added activities from the manufacturing process. To do this, Six Sigma uses five basic steps: define the problem (D), measure the current state (M), analyze the root cause (A), design a solution and implement the solution (I), and control/monitor results(C).

1. Define Problem - Defining the problem involves identifying what needs improvement. To do this, you need to identify the problems first. You should start by defining the actual problem that you want to solve, not just the symptoms. Symptoms may lead you astray if they don't actually represent the true problem.

2. Measure Current State - Once you have identified the problem, you need to determine how much of it exists. Measuring the current state means taking measurements of the current situation.

3. Analyze Root Cause - Analyzing the root cause of the problem requires determining where the problem started. Knowing where the problem began, you can begin working backwards to find out why it happened. There are many different ways to approach analyzing the root cause. One way would be to look at the causes and effects of the problem. Another method would be to ask questions about the problem.

4. Design and Implement Solution - Once you've determined the root cause, you'll need to create a plan to fix the problem. Designing a solution includes deciding on the best course of action to take. You might decide to change something about the process, or add additional equipment.

Once you decide on the plan of action, you implement the solution.

5. Control/Monitor Results - Monitoring the results of the plan helps ensure that everything went according to plan. Monitoring the implementation results is done by comparing them to the original plan. If the results aren't equal to the plan, you'll need to adjust the plan accordingly. In addition, you would need to put some systems in place so that the improved system remains effective over time.

Summary

The goal of Six Sigma is to eliminate waste and improve quality through continuous process improvements. It's a systematic approach to eliminating defects and non-value-added processes.