Six Sigma: methodology and benefits

Six Sigma has effectively improved the process revolving around the two vital cogs in a business process — managing costs and meeting the needs of the customer. By using data and and statistical analysis, Six Sigma leads to an improvement in the overall enterprise environment by reducing defects.

The framework adopted by Six Sigma involves the DMAIC (define – measure – analyse – improve – control) methodology. All business process should revolve around this framework in order to improve quality.

“Define” refers to specifying the customer requirements. It is also important to identify the processes that lead towards the goal of the enterprise. The next step is to “Measure” or gather information on the defects in the targeted processes, and locate problem areas. This data is then “Analyzed” to project the difference between the desired levels and the actual process. Next, the process is “Improved” by implementing solutions to the problem areas. Once the process is improved, “Control” steps are undertaken to maintain the quality over time. Domain-B.com reports:

The biggest companies across the world have implemented Six Sigma, like Motorola, GE, 3M, Citicorp, Ford, Apple, Microsoft and many others. Their experience has been very encouraging; most say they have derived significant benefits: A reduced number of defects has resulted in huge savings on the costs that companies incur in rectifying defects and compensating customers. This saving adds directly to the bottom-line of the company.