In an earlier article, I discussed the transformation function Y = f(X), where Y represents the output of a process. The output is a function of the inputs (the X’s) that affect the output. Designed Experiments are used to help us quantify the effect that the inputs have on the output of a process. In […]
Category Archives: Six Sigma
Six Sigma is focused on improving the performance of processes. In simple terms, processes have inputs, activities, and outputs. The process activities transform the inputs that come from suppliers into a product or service that is delivered to a customer. Consider baking a cake. The inputs are ingredients such as eggs, flour, milk, butter and […]
Data analysis is growing by leaps and bounds. More and more, business analysts, project managers, and Six Sigma practitioners have access to more data. The key is how to derive useful information from the raw data. That is where data analytics comes in. TRUISM! Raw data is not fit for human consumption, but the information […]
Six Sigma is a fact and data based approach to problem solving. After we have defined a gap in performance and have collected data about the performance of a process, we need to analyze the data to find the root cause or causes of the problem. Data stratification is a tool that we can use […]
One of the most powerful ways to improve business performance is combining business process management (BPM) strategies with Six Sigma strategies. BPM strategies emphasize process improvements and automation to drive performance, while Six Sigma uses statistical analysis to drive quality improvements. The two strategies are not mutually exclusive, however, and some savvy companies have discovered […]
A clear understanding of the difference between discrete and continuous data is critical to the success of any Six Sigma practitioner. The decision about which statistical test is appropriate under a specific set of circumstances very often depends on whether the underlying data is discrete or continuous. Discrete data are also referred to as attribute […]
Six Sigma is a problem solving approach that is based on facts and data. It is imperative that we gather facts and data that can be relied on for making decisions about what to change and what to change to. The devices that are used to measure and the way that people collect data are […]
The ability to solve complicated business problems quickly is more important than ever in today’s economy. From the time we’re little kids, we’re taught to solve problems by trial and error. That’s fine if the problem is as simple as a burned out light bulb. When the issue is a muddle of business, technical and […]
Many students begin their study of Six Sigma with the idea in mind that an organization must implement Six Sigma in an “all or nothing” fashion. While that is one possible approach, it is certainly not the only one. In their book What is Six Sigma? authors Pete Pande and Larry Holpp suggest three possible […]
Lean Six Sigma (LSS) has been a case study on how to successfully rebrand and make famous, existing process improvement techniques. LSS is the conglomeration of Lean Manufacturing, Statistical Process Control, Deming’s Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle, and some project management. LSS was made famous in the business world in the ‘90’s by Jack Welch, the CEO of […]