Six Sigma can be simply defined as, a measure of quality that strives for near perfection. Six sigma is a disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating defects (driving towards six sigma’s between lower and upper specification limits) in any process-from manufacturing to transactional and from product to service.
The statistical representation of six sigma describes quantitatively how a process is performed. To achieve six sigma, a process must not produce more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities.
A six sigma defect is defined as anything outside customer specifications. A six sigma opportunity is then the total quantity of chances for a defect. Process sigma can easily be calculated using a six sigma calculator.
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The fundamental objective of the six sigma methodology is the implementation of a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and variation reduction, through the application of six sigma improvement projects.
This is accomplished through the use of two six sigma sub-methodologies – DMAIC and DMADV. The six sigma DMAIC processes (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) is an improvement system for existing processes falling below specification and looking for incremental improvement.
DMADV process (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, and Verify) is an improvement system, used to develop new processes or products at six sigma quality levels.
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It can also be employed if a current process requires more than just incremental improvement. Both six sigma processes are executed by six sigma green belts and six sigma black belts, and are overseen by six sigma master black belts.
According to the Six Sigma Academy, black belts save -companies approximately $230,000 per project and can complete four to six projects per year.
General Electric-one of the most successful companies implementing six sigma-has estimated benefits on the order of $10 billion during the first five years of implementation.
Many frameworks exist for implementing the six sigma methodology. Six sigma consultants all over the world have developed proprietary methodologies for implementing six sigma qualities, based on the similar change management philosophies and applications of tools.