In Six Sigma we collect and analyze data in order to look for patterns that will help us understand the behavior of a process and where to focus our improvement efforts. Prior to collecting the data, we need to think about how we want to analyze the data. If we fail to collect the detail […]
Tag Archives: Six Sigma
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 perceived by many as an approach to quality improvement. In fact, quality improvement is a means to two important ends. One is improved customer satisfaction, and the other is saving money. The marketplace determines to a great extent how much a company can charge for goods and services. The company determines how […]
Process performance is universally described in practice by collecting data and calculating the mean (i.e. the mathematical average) performance. Unfortunately, the variation around the mean is almost never included when describing process performance. This is a critical oversight that is addressed by the Six Sigma methodology. Let me illustrate with an example that I often […]
Most introductory courses in Six Sigma talk a lot about what Six Sigma is. In our Green Belt course I also include a discussion about what Six Sigma is not. I feel that this discussion is equally important when one is trying to understand the Six Sigma approach to problem solving and continuous improvement. The […]
In our Green Belt course I introduce the concepts of process capability and process control. I find that many students have trouble understanding the difference between the two. This is compounded by the fact that the output of a process may fall into of four possible combinations of capability and control. Process capability looks at […]
Most students of Six Sigma first become exposed to the concepts and ideas that drive the approach when they enroll in a Yellow Belt or Green Belt certification course. In both of these courses as offered by Key Performance, I included an early assignment with the title “What Is Six Sigma”? In this assignment I […]
Six Sigma certification has become a valuable credential in the marketplace. Certification illustrates that candidates have done more than merely complete the training – it means they have truly demonstrated comprehension and application of the Six Sigma methodology, tools, and techniques. Higher quality standards, happier customers, waste reduction, improved efficiency and lower costs – you […]
I responded recently to a question that was posed about professional certifications. The questioner asked which one would be best to pursue given his job responsibilities, the Project Management Professional (PMP) or the Six Sigma Black Belt. My response was that he should consider both, and my arguments were as follows. Six Sigma is, fundamentally, […]