Why Six Sigma and Not Five or Seven Sigma?

Based on world-class process performance and statistical analysis of real-world processes, the Six Sigma quality levels relate better to customer expectations. Five sigma will not meet customer requirements, and seven will not add significant value. Six Sigma's 3.4 parts per million is close to perfection, and that makes it a more attainable and realistic goal to achieve.

Why Is Six Sigma Important?

The process aspect of the Six Sigma methodologies is fundamental to any process in a business. If a business is not practicing the Six Sigma methodologies as a process, then they probably will experience disconnects between their Customer's Critical Criteria, their expectations, and the delivery of quality products or services. Six Sigma deployments focus on the customer expectations, and concentrate on the best applications of scarce resources within the organization to those processes that substantially contribute to the bottom-line profitability of the organization.

How Can You Use Six Sigma in Your Organization?

First, one must understand the principles of Six Sigma methodologies before attempting deployment. Occasionally, people jump to implementation and training of Black Belts quickly, in an attempt to gain a specific advantage.

This frequently leads to chaos and confusion. The most common problem experienced in jumping ahead of the game is that we measure the wrong processes. Meaningless measurements cost us more, waste our valuable time, and create confusion as to our strategic goals.

Does Six Sigma Apply to Service Operations As Well As Manufacturing?

Six Sigma...