Six Sigma Methodologies

Evolution of Six Sigma

Six Sigma traces its roots to the 1800s with mathematician Carl Gauss’s work on normal distribution. The term “Six Sigma” was later coined by Motorola engineer Bill Cohen, and standardized by Bill Smith in 1986 to measure defects per million opportunities—aiming for 99.9997% defect-free output (just 3.4 defects per million).

Adopted by major companies like Motorola, GE, and Citibank, Six Sigma has delivered billions in savings by reducing defects, rework, and cycle time—ultimately improving quality and customer satisfaction.

What sets Six Sigma apart:

Data-driven, project-based methodology
Focus on process and performance improvement
Organization-wide commitment to continuous improvement

Six Sigma Methodologies

Two Key Six Sigma Methodologies: DMAIC & DMADV

DMAIC is used to improve existing processes:

Define project goals and customer needs
Measure current performance
Analyze root causes of issues
Improve by eliminating defects
Control to sustain improvements

DMADV is used to create new products or processes:

Define goals and customer requirements
Measure and assess current capabilities
Analyze design alternatives
Design the optimized solution
Validate that it meets customer needs

DMAIC focuses on refinement, while DMADV is for innovation.

Six Sigma Characteristics

Customer centric
Process focused
Data driven
Involvement and support of the top management
Cultural change
Breakthrough performance gains
Structured improvement deployment
Validation through key business results
Reduction in variation
Elimination of defects
Improvement in yield
Enhancement in customer satisfaction
Strengthening of the bottom line

Six Sigma vs Traditional Quality Management

Six Sigma

Decisions are driven by data
Control process inputs (Focus on X’s)
Structured use of statistical tools to help in problem solving
Structured training in applied statistics
Root cause approach
Prevention over inspection

Traditional Quality Management

Decisions are taken based on a combination of data and 'gut feel'.
Inspection method (Focus on Y)
No formal structure exists for the application of tools
Lack of structured training
Band aid approach
Inspection over prevention

Hotline: +1 281 858 3303

Email: contact@xpertbrains.com

Disclaimer

XpertBrains provides training and consulting services for educational purposes only. Outcomes may vary based on individual effort, industry experience, market conditions, and how the knowledge is applied. We do not guarantee specific results, certifications, or business success. Clients should seek professional advice for legal, financial, or regulatory matters.