Six Sigma in many organizations simply means a quality measure that strives for perfection. Six Sigma is a disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating defects (driving toward six standard deviations between the mean and the nearest specification limit) in any process, from manufacturing to transaction and from product to service. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essayThe roots of Six Sigma as a measurement standard can be traced back to Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777-1855) who introduced the concept of curve normality. Six Sigma as a standard of measurement in product variation can be traced back to the 1920s, when Walter Shewhart demonstrated that three sigma from the mean is the point at which a process requires correction. Many measurement standards (Cpk, Zero Defects, etc.) came onto the scene later, but credit for coining the term "Six Sigma" goes to a Motorola engineer named Bill Smith. Bill Smith, together with Mikel Harry, had written and codified a research report on the new quality management system that emphasized the interdependence between a product's performance in the marketplace and the adjustments required at the point of production. The report clearly indicated that the fewer nonconformities at each stage of production, the better the performance. This report was nothing less than a revolution because it paved the way for the implementation of “logical filters” as a key tool for solving problems. Bob Galvin, the then CEO of Motorola, became a leader in this system, and with his help, later this four-stage logic filter became the skeleton of today's Six Sigma. The four phases were known as Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control.MethodologiesThe fundamental objective of the Six Sigma methodology is the implementation of a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and reduction of variation through the application of designs of Six Sigma improvement. This is achieved through the use of two Six Sigma sub-methodologies: DMAIC: the DMAIC (acronym for Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) project methodology involves five phases. Define the system, the voice of the customer, their needs and the project objectives, in particular. Measure key aspects of the current process and collect relevant data; calculate process capacity “as is”. Analyze data to investigate and verify cause-effect relationships. Determine what the relationships are and try to ensure that all factors have been considered. Look for the root cause of the defect under investigation. Improve or optimize the current process based on data analysis using techniques such as design of experiments, poka yoke or error correction, and standard work to create a new future state process. Set up pilot runs to establish process capability. Monitor the future state process to ensure that any deviations from the goal are corrected before they result in defects. Implement control systems such as statistical process control, production sheets, visual workplaces and continuously monitor the process. This process is repeated until the desired level of quality is achieved.DMADV: The DMADV project methodology, known as DFSS ("Design For Six Sigma") involves five phases: Define design objectives consistent with customer requirements and strategy corporate. Measure and identify CTQs (critical quality characteristics), measure product capabilities, manufacturing process capability and measure risks. Design.
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