Methods, Tools & Techniques are vital to the success of any Six Sigma project whether DFSS or DMAIC. Every stage of a Six Sigma project recipe requires a mix of these methods, tools & techniques. Let us briefly review what do we mean by these keywords. Method is a way of doing something in a systematic way. Here word "systematic" implies an orderly logical sequence of steps or tasks. A tool provides a mechanical or mental advantage in accomplishing a task. A technique is a specific approach to efficiently accomplish a task in a manner that may not be immediately obvious.
SIPOC
SIPOC is a high-level picture of the process that depicts how the given process is servicing the customer. It is an acronym for Suppliers-Inputs-Process-Outputs-Customers. Click to read more >>
Operational Definition
Operational definition is the first step towards effective management. It helps us build a clear understanding of a concept or a phenomenon so that it can be unambiguously measured. Click to read more >>
Benchmarking
Benchmarking is a standard by which something can be measured or judged. This term was first used by surveyors. They set a benchmark by marking a point of known vertical elevation. Therefore benchmark becomes a point of reference for a measurement. We benchmark everyday. We compare our performance, lifestyle, or a game of golf with friends and peers. What is benchmarking in a business environment? Click to read more >>
Brainstorming
Brainstorming is a technique to systematically generate ideas usually to handle a challenging situation, from a group of people by nurturing free-thinking. Some of the right challenges to address using brainstorming are problem solving, new design or new product development, and research & development. Click to read more >>
Fishbone Diagram
The fishbone diagram is a graphical method for finding the root causes of an effect. The effect can be either a negative one, such as a process defect or an undue process variation; or a positive one, such as a desired process outcome. Click to read more >>
Pareto Chart
A Pareto Chart depicts the frequency with which certain events occur. It is a bar graph where each frequency (or frequency range) is shown in a descending order of importance of data, from left to right.This is based on the Pareto Principle, also called 80-20 rule or rule of vital few. Click to read more >>
Risk Management
Risk has two key elements - a) an uncertainty and b) an impact in terms of potential loss (if it happens). Risk management is a continuous process. Risk management process involves several key steps. Click to read more >>
Sampling
Sampling is a method to draw inference about one or more characteristics of a large group of items by examining a smaller but representative selection of group items. Steps to successful sampling are discussed, including topics like determining the sample size and selecting the sampling technique. Click to read more >>