Although the program has proven wildly successful in many different cases, other companies have tried to implement the Six Sigma system with results that can best be described as mixed. A large part of the "mixed" (and you can read that as "negative"!) results can be attributed to an improper implementation of the Six Sigma process. One way in w

There are few things as necessary as keeping you and yours safe in some of the harshest conditions. Anyone can have an accident. As a youngster, we had mom or dad to make everything better, but our parents had a hidden arsenal or hugs, kisses, sympathy, and of course, first aid kits to make everything a-okay. As adults, we continue this tradition,

There are roles such as Champions, Master Black Belts, Black Belts, Green Belts, and other team members. The Champion and Master Black Belt are at higher responsibility levels. Let's take a look at the roles of Champions and Master Black Belts. Champions The simplest way to explain the responsibility of the Champion is that of removal of

Similarities between Six Sigma and Marketing exist even when there is only a remote possibility that the 6Sigma team members will ever get to meet their counterparts in the marketing department. For better understanding, let's discuss some of the similarities that exist between them. Voice of the Customer (VOC) Both Six Sigma and marketi

A project that is a 'just-do-it' type of project will not reap any benefits or show any returns on investment. A system to develop a project pipeline is in line with the efforts for continuous improvement. A six-step process to keep the project pipeline full will enable the Master Black Belts and the Champions to find the right projects and sel

Based on this, in the later stages of the project, regular project reviews are attempted. Project reviews are simple checks of the stage at which the project stands, whether or not it is following the timelines, the usage of appropriate tools and so on. The key areas of the outcome or the targets achieved at various stages are reviewed. Ge

The DMAIC methodology can be put to good use in the banking industry as well. Tools like QFD have been utilized to maximum benefit in this industry. Some big banks like Bank of America, Citibank, Bank of Southwest and others have achieved good results by applying the Six Sigma methodology to their various processes. Define: In banking, custo

IDOV is a popular methodology mostly used in the manufacturing industry. The acronym stands for Identify, Design, Optimize and Validate. You will find that these are similar to the traditional Six Sigma methodology MAIC (Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control). The phases and their similarities with the MAIC process are mentioned below. Ident

Now, arguing against the role played by Six Sigma professionals would certainly tantamount to undermining the importance of their skills sets and knowledge, but you should never forget that there are other factors as well that play an equally important role in determining the success of Six Sigma implementations. One such crucial role is played

For such implementation, it becomes necessary for the project to start on the strong footing of well-thought out charter that covers all the problem areas of the organization - and an equally solid project sponsorship. These two components are necessary to ensure the health of the project and achieve quality results. Sponsorship Scenarios

Kaizen aims at small improvements that involve the ongoing efforts of everyone. These small improvements over a period of time produce bigger effects than the big project approach. Six Sigma and Kaizen Kaizen is not about changing the basic system; it is aimed at optimizing the existing system. The approach promotes learning, building capabil

You may be tempted to give all the credit to the expertise and skills of Six Sigma professionals such as Black Belts, but what you probably do not realize is that most of their decisions related to quality improvements are in fact based on the collected statistical data. Sometimes, personal experiences and gut feelings can certainly make all th

What is Theory of Constraints (TOC)? The theory of constraints helps manage complex systems, as well as determine the root cause of any problem. Contrary to Six Sigma, the approach is logic driven to analyzing the root causes. There is a probability of a Six Sigma project failing due to wrong selection. The TOC approach is to manage and ide

However, success has not been consistent everywhere. In areas of highly mobile workforces, such as sales and services, deployments have always been a challenge, even though these people are the ones who are in constant touch with customers. Some organizations that have tried to use Six Sigma in field sales have used information technology solut

There are no excuses for slack and lack of excellence. Corporate life has become a race and all companies must aspire to win. Applying Six Sigma principles and practices is indispensable in order to optimize individual and team performance. The following tips will prove valuable in keeping Six Sigma teams motivated: Psychological Tools -