Six Sigma

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Definition

Six Sigma seeks to identify and resolve the causes of defects and errors in engineering and business processes.

It uses a set of quality management methods, including statistical methods, and creates a special infrastructure of people within the organization who are experts in these methods.

Each 6 Sigma project carried out within an organization follows a defined sequence of steps and has quantified financial targets.

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History

Motorola developed 6 Sigma in response to a challenge from their management to reduce product failures.

At it's core, it is a set of practices that improves processes through defect reduction.

Although, Motorola is credited with the creation of the practices, many believe they evolved from earlier methodologies like, Quality Control and Zero Defects.

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Key Concepts

The goal is to improve customer satisfaction and profitability through the reduction of defects.

• Everything is a process
• All processes have an inherent variable
• The data is used to interpret the variability which is used to drive process improvement

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The framework for this improvement are

• Define
• Measure
• Analyze
• Improve
• Control

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6 Sigma and SCM

Much in the same way that SCM helps in supporting CMM and CMMI, SCM best practices a provide strong foundation in supporting continuous process improvements.

In addition, 6 Sigma will help in identifying weak and problem areas in you SCM processes.

6 Sigma.us offers courses, training and certification in Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt, Champion and Lean 6 Sigma certification.

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Links and References

• 6sigma.com
• Motorola University - Six Sigma Training

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