Intro

What is Six sigma (6σ)? Understanding Six Sigma Methodology

Six Sigma is a powerful problem solving and process improvement tool which is developed by a quality
assurance engineer Bill Smith at Motorola in 1986.
The Six Sigma Methodology involves a set of techniques to improve the quality of a process or a product by
removing or minimizing the causes of defects.
Basically, the Six Sigma Methodology combines statistical methods with quality management methods to build
a framework for process improvement within the organization.
Six Sigma Methodology

The Six Sigma methodology aims to improve the quality of the process by analyzing and reducing defects and
errors. It is a quality management process that is applicable to all industries

Apart from the other quality improvement techniques, Six Sigma aims to achieve measurable quantifiable and
measurable results. Other techniques often rely on assumptions and estimates.

There are two basic methodologies for conducting a “Six Sigma” process which are DMAIC and DMADV.

The main difference between the two methodologies is DMAIC is used to improve the existing process while
DMADV is used for new products or process.

Six Sigma Methodology DMAIC

1. Define: Identify customer requirements and project objectives.

2. Measure: Realise the current project performance and measure the various aspects of it by collecting inputs.
3. Analyze: Analyze the data and determine the root causes of any defects.
4. Improve: Optimize the current process and establish ways to improve the process.
5. Control: Create and implement control systems to control the future performance of the process. It is a
continuous process aims to reach the desired quality level.
Six Sigma Methodology DMADV
1. Define: Identify customer requirements and project goals.
2. Measure: Measure product capabilities, risks, and critical components.
3. Analyze: To develop and design alternatives
4. Design: Design the alternative which is the best-suited one in the Analyze step.
5. Verify: Verify the design by the help of simulations and implement the production process. Then hand over
the process to the client or the process owner.

Six Sigma Methodology Implementation Levels

Six Sigma implementation necessitates specially trained staff and certified professionals. Green Belt, Black Belt,
and Master Black Belt are the three levels of Six Sigma Certification.

There are also white and yellow belt roles but their task is to assist higher level belts.

Green Belts: First certification level is the green belt. They mostly have a general understanding and
knowledge on Six Sigma Principles. They participate in Six Sigma projects as a part-time employee.
Black Belts: Black Belts are full-time experts working under the guidance of Black Master Belts. They are
experienced team leaders.
Master Black Belts: They guide employees for Six Sigma Implementation. They work with upper management
in close cooperation.

Benefits of Six Sigma Methodology

Using the Six Sigma Methodologies and implementing its core principles provides many benefits to the
organizations. Here below are some benefits of using this technique to improve the business processes.

Increases productivity
Minimizes defects
Increases customer satisfaction
Improves customer loyalty
Improves the quality
Improves employee satisfaction
Reducess the cycle times
Solve the problems effectively
Determines the root cause of a problem
Improves decision making
Improves the business processes
Reduces the operating costs
Improvess strategic planning
Improve time management
Creates a vision for the company
Ensures continuous improvement

Six Sigma is a popular process improvement methodology in business that focuses on customer satisfaction.
The two methodologies DMAIC and DMADV are the sub methodologies of Six Sigma. Using this technique
enables to reduce the number of defective products manufactured or services provided, resulting in increased
revenue and greater customer satisfaction.
Intro