The six sigma method seeks to promote a process of continuous improvement.
Six sigma is the name of a method that aims to achieve an improvement in the processes carried out in an organization. This is a strategy that aims to optimize production and quality .
The name six sigma is associated with the use of statistical tools. The standard deviation that reflects the variability of something is called sigma : that a process reaches a range of effectiveness within six sigma (or six sigma, in English) means that the variation is limited, which in turn reveals that the The process is almost perfect because the vast majority of the results fall within the desired range.
Characteristics of six sigma
Six sigma is a strategy that consists of reviewing processes to detect and reduce defects . In this way, continuous improvement is encouraged since the variability of the processes in question is minimized.
At this point it is important to indicate that a defect is an event that causes a buyer or user to be dissatisfied with the product or service. Therefore, correcting defects increases customer satisfaction.
The American engineer Bill Smith is mentioned as the creator of six sigma in the context of his work at Motorola . Later the method was adopted by General Electric and little by little it spread to other companies.
Project management according to the six sigma strategy involves the development of a statistical analysis that contributes to quality control and process stability. Based on data analysis, measures can be applied to achieve improved productivity , reduced waste and greater operational efficiency , for example.
The metric that is usually used as a parameter is defects per million opportunities (DPMO) , which reflects the number of defects per unit produced in the process. Although a result of zero defects is aimed at as ideal, the six sigma methodology aims to keep variability within minimum margins.
By contributing to the correction of defects, six sigma reduces process variability.
Its stages
The implementation of six sigma requires the development of six stages. The first consists of defining the needs of the clients, the scope of the project and the quality criteria .
Then a measurement of the performance of the processes that are already being carried out must be carried out, using precise and objective indicators. The next step consists of the analysis of the data collected , an essential task for the identification of defects, variability and possibilities for improvement.
The fourth phase is based on the application of measures to make the necessary corrections and achieve optimization . Finally, comes the stage of control and monitoring of results .
Evaluating performance metrics is key to the successful implementation of the six sigma paradigm.
Six sigma methodologies
Within the framework of six sigma culture, different methodologies can be used. These procedures or techniques propose different alternatives to promote improvements:
- DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control): This is the most used methodology for improving the processes that are already being carried out. That is why its steps coincide with the stages of six sigma in general.
- DMAVD (Define, Measure, Analyze, Verify, Design): It is also aimed at improving ongoing processes, although it includes the design of new solutions that are added to the work.
- IDOV (Identify, Design, Optimize, Verify): Specifically focused on performance optimization.
- DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify): Unlike other methodologies, it is aimed at the design and implementation of new processes, seeking to ensure that the client's demands are satisfied from the beginning.
The belts
The belts of different colors are recognitions that function as a six sigma certification . The logic is the same as in martial arts: as knowledge is acquired and training advances, belts of different colors are achieved.
The white belt is that of those who only have elementary knowledge of six sigma and can participate in projects, but not direct them or design strategies. Those who have basic formal training reach the yellow belt and can assist the highest categories in solving problems, in addition to contributing to strategies.
The green belt marks that the person is prepared to develop strategies and implement their own techniques. By obtaining the black belt , the individual can now manage projects of all types of complexity, implementing large-scale modifications with a direct impact on business results.
There is an additional distinction: master black belt , which reflects the highest understanding of the six sigma system . The one who directs the project and leads the work team, on the other hand, is referred to as champion .
It is important to keep in mind that there is no single standard or official or authorized institution to recognize six sigma competencies.