subject: You Can Begin Saving Money In Your Business With The Six Sigma Process [print this page] Would you like to save time, money and materials within your business? Certainly you would- who wouldn't? The resources and processes of the six sigma methodology can help you to begin doing so today!
Many businesses slap band aids on top of problems which are scene, instead of looking for the issues that are essentially driving the existence of waste or defects. By following six sigma methodologies, you can stop utilizing band aids and actually begin fixing problems. One six sigma tool, called the "5 Whys" allows you to dig deep- down to the actual root cause- prior to designing a solution. This tool starts with looking at the perceived problem and asking why that issue exists- what is driving it. This is your first why. After this assessment, every layer of the issues is then assessed by asking "why" again. You can repeat the question of "why" as frequently as necessary to actually get down to the root or underlying cause, whether it's 5, 10 or 100 repetitions. Since a multitude of processes are built upon many other additional processes, it's necessary to remove all of the layers to get down to the issue that actually needs to be addressed.
Another essential process in the six sigma tool box is collating the voice of the customer. Many well-meaning business professionals perceive that a situation exists, and set off to fix it before verifying that it's actually a problem in need of a solution. By assembling the opinions of all who touch the product or process - internally and externally - actually issues can be vetted. Generally, what one person perceives as an issue is non-existent to those who in fact work on a process or use a finished product. The voice of the consumer allows improvement projects to focus on actual issues instead of create solutions for non-issues.
A key functionality of six sigma projects is their sustainability. Another issue that several businesses run into is that solutions - many times great solutions - are implemented, yet they are only effective briefly. The last phase of any six sigma project is the control phase, and within this phase, the sustainability of identified solutions is the primary focus.
The results of the implemented solutions are evaluated at pre-determined periods of time to evaluate their actual efficacy. This allows for either minor adjustments or big changes to be made as soon as any further issues are identified. The control phase also guarantees that the identified solutions are carried out regularly instead of as a one-time fix. The tools and methodologies of six sigma improvement projects can lead to short term wins as well as long term solutions for businesses.
by: Craig Calvin
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