How to Improve Six Sigma

Six Sigma is an efficiency system that defines, measures, analyzes, improves and controls any process (i.e., packaging items for shipment) the company elects. Improving this strategy will require more research to help ensure success. You must have a plan to determine the feasibility of how you go about improving Six Sigma. Reviewing your cost factor and benefits more effectively than you have been can improve your output, which the Six Sigma process is meant to enhance. To begin the improvement of Six Sigma, you may seek the support of a professional to ensure that you obtain the best results.

Things You'll Need

• Feasibility plan
• Cost-benefit analysis

Instructions

1. Learn what DMAIC stands for regarding Six Sigma. DMAIC stands for defining the problem area, measuring the defect (i.e, cycle), analyzing the root causes, improving the situation with implementation and controlling the issue by standardizing a solution for it within a handbook, for example. Find more details within the resources section.

2. Create a feasibility study before implementing the Six Sigma approach. The study should include how and why the project will work. A feasibility plan sample template can be found online or at a local library. You may refer to a consultant for assistance in preparing the likelihood of success for a project. Look for support in finding a consultant at local colleges and universities. Save yourself time by determining the chance for success before establishing any project commitment.

3. Identify high gain alternatives (i.e., replacing equipment via leasing vs. replacing equipment via purchasing) by completing a cost-benefit analysis to improve Six Sigma. Financial write-off gains may result from buying equipment rather leasing it. Solve the issues that influence the bottom-line the most. The cost-and-benefit analysis estimates and adds up the equivalent money value of the benefits. This analysis determines if each project can be effective based on the costs to the group of projects in consideration.

4. Establish a priority list for tasks. Base the list on a project's revenue impact from the cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the potential solution ideas regarding the feasibility study. Establish a chronological list of project implementation start dates for consideration, beginning with those that have the greatest impact on revenue and ending with those that have the least impact on revenue.Provide details about why the project comes first, second, etc. For instance, a good reason could be the project affects more than one department, so it takes precedence. Typically, restraints in funding or a minimal impact on revenue could be the reasons for non-priority status.

References

• Tutorials Point: A Self Learning Place "Six Sigma Improve Phase"
• Advances: "Using Six Sigma® Methodology to Improve Handoff Communication in High-Risk Patients"
• ISU Extension: "What Is A Feasibility Study?"
• San Jose State University Dept. Of Economics: "An Introduction To Cost Benefit Analysis"

Resources

• Wisc-Online: "Six Sigma DMAIC Steps"