Lexikon

Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a data-based management system that is used to optimize business processes.

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Six Sigma: Process optimization through data-based methods

Six Sigma is a proven method that helps companies make their processes more efficient and significantly reduce the error rate. Developed by Motorola in the 1980s, Six Sigma is based on statistical analysis and a structured approach to improve business process performance. The goal is to achieve an error rate of a maximum of 3.4 errors per million possibilities, which leads to a significant increase in quality and efficiency.

Six Sigma philosophy

Six Sigma has a clear customer-focused approach based on three essential principles is based on:

👥 Focus on the customer

The method is based on meeting customer needs as a central objective. Processes are constantly being adjusted to exceed customer expectations and meet market requirements.
⚙️ Systematic process improvement

The focus is on improving and stabilizing business processes. Six Sigma aims to systematically identify sources of error and improve process quality.
📈 Data-driven decision making

Decisions are based on quantitative data and statistical methods. This ensures that changes are based on well-founded, measurable insights.

DMAIC and DMADV: The core methods of Six Sigma

Six Sigma offers two main methods for process optimization: DMAIC and DMADV. While DMAIC is used to optimize existing processes, DMADV is used to develop new processes or products.

DMAIC: A framework for process optimization

DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control — a five-step cycle for continuous improvement of business processes.

  1. ‍Define: The project goals and the scope of processes are clearly defined.‍
  2. Measure: The performance of existing processes is measured to understand the initial situation.‍
  3. Analyze: The causes of inefficiencies or errors are analysed.‍
  4. Improve: Based on the analysis, solutions are developed and implemented.‍
  5. Control: The improved process is monitored to ensure that the changes are sustainable.

DMADV: For developing new processes

DMADV stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify and is used when developing new products or processes.

  1. ‍Define: Project requirements are defined, with particular attention to customer needs.‍
  2. Measure: The most important parameters are measured to create a sound basis for the design.‍
  3. Analyze: Possible design options are evaluated.‍
  4. Design (designing): The selected process or product is designed in detail.‍
  5. Verify: The design is tested to ensure that it meets expectations.

Roles and Certifications in Six Sigma

Six Sigma distinguishes between different roles that require different responsibilities and qualifications:

Master Black Belt The highest certification level. It includes training and supporting Six Sigma projects as well as coaching project teams.
Black Belt Experts who lead Six Sigma projects and are responsible for their implementation.
Green Belt Employees who participate in and support Six Sigma projects.
Yellow Belt Basic knowledge of Six Sigma, often working as a member of a project team.

These roles require different training and exams, which are awarded by recognized certification bodies such as the ASQ or the IASSC.

Conclusion

Six Sigma offers companies a structured, data-based framework for process improvement and error reduction. By using DMAIC or DMADV, existing processes can be optimized as well as new, error-free processes developed. Companies that successfully implement Six Sigma benefit not only from higher customer satisfaction, but also from lower costs and improved competitiveness.