Six Sigma Explained
Six Sigma is a disciplined, statistical-based, data-driven approach, and continuous improvement methodology for eliminating defects in a product, process, or service. It was developed by Bill Smith from in 1988 while working for Motorola. Since then six sigma has seen worldwide adoption.
Six Sigma aims to reduce time, defects, and variability experienced by processes in an organization. Thanks to Six Sigma you can produce a defect-free product 99% of the time allowing only 3.4% errors per 1 millionth opportunities.
Six Sigma also increases customer loyalty towards the brand, increases employee morale leading to higher productivity.
Six Sigma has two major methodologies:
- DMAIC — It is an acronym for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control.
- Define — In this phase, you determine what issues you are facing? What your opportunities for improvement are? and what the customer requires of you. Here you look at the process as a whole and determine the issues with the manufacturing process.
- Measure — In this phase, You determine how the process is performing currently in its unaltered state. You determine Some of the metrics measured: Number of units produced, time is taken for production, and the number of defects detected.
- DMADV
Six sigma is used in a variety of industries.
The martial arts belt structure is used to recognize proficiency in training and application in Six Sigma, using the following colors:
- White Belt — Overview, DMAIC, Define Phase
- Yellow Belt — White Belt + process mapping, data collection and charting, assisting with a project
- Green Belt — Yellow Belt + Project leader, core Six Sigma tools (Gage R&R, SPC, Capability, ANOVA, Regression), change management, hypothesis tests and more
- Black Belt — Green Belt + advanced statistical analysis and experiments, change management, nonnormal distributions
- Master Black Belt — Black Belt + Design for Six Sigma, more advanced statistical analysis, unique tools for specific industries and processes, working with leadership, implementing successful improvement programs
However, not all levels are consistent and equal to each other, so it is important to ask questions about the topics covered and the requirements needed to complete each belt level.