By Nicholas Muhoro Updated June 04, 2019
Six Sigma is a highly effective approach which creates improvement in business processes by advancing each sector of an enterprise. It uses both statistical and analytical methods to reduce variation in the end products. Six Sigma examples are great ways of helping one understand the characteristics and benefits of techniques used during its implementation. There are several Six Sigma project modules which use these examples to help the learner understand the manner the system operates.
Business students may be presented with an example of a crisis in a business and asked to solve it using different Six Sigma models.
What Are the Basic Principles of Six Sigma?
Typically, Six Sigma successes are based on five primary principles. The first focuses on customer requirements. Six Sigma strategy first pays attention to the needs of the client before suggesting a course of action. The second principle is the use of extensive measurement and statistical evaluation, so the client becomes aware of the cause of the problem and then know how the work will be accomplished. The third principle of Six Sigma is to be proactive. It concerns the elimination of characteristically error-prone processes to improve the overall process continually.
The fourth principle is to involve individuals within Six Sigma cross-functional teams, and finally, Six Sigma endorses diligence and flexibility as a tenet in businesses. Six Sigma can be divided into two approaches. These include the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control (DMAIC) method, and the Define, Measure, Analyze Design and Verify (DMADV) mode.
The Six Sigma DMAIC method is usually used for the advancement of an existing process. Potential DMAIC examples include the development of a manufacturing shop floor yield process or improving evidence-based care objectives for a hospital. The DMADV approach is used when designing a new process.
Six Sigma Tools
Six Sigma tools are problem-solving avenues used to support Six Sigma and other improvement initiatives. They include:
5S System: This is a means of organizing the materials in the workplace, leading to quicker access and more effective maintenance. The 5S system is excellent for waste management and disposal within the work environment.
Value Stream Mapping: Value stream maps illustrate the flow of materials and information in one of the processes. It helps with optimizing flow within companies.
Pareto Chart: The Pareto chart illustrates the differences between particular data groups allowing the Six Sigma teams to point out the most significant threats against the process.
Regression Analysis: Regression analysis is a statistical approach, used to ascertain the negative or positive relationships among several variables.
Kaizen: This is a practice of continual observation, identification, and implementing particular improvements to the production process.
Six Sigma Examples
Some high profile six sigma examples include the following.
General Electric: Despite hiring the best specialized personnel available and using the latest technology, GE has had issues with product quality and overall service. It employed Six Sigma on a trial basis, and streamlined its product assurance process, resulting in increased revenue.
Wipro: As a leader in the software development industry, consumer goods production and customer service were lacking. Its defects were soon neutralized with the help of Six Sigma implementation.
Microsoft: The secret behind their stellar service record and product line is Six Sigma. The software and products leader is now considered a poster child for Six Sigma implementation.
Motorola: As one of the first large companies to use Six Sigma, it implemented it on a trial basis to streamline product quality and services to increase revenues. The results were very encouraging, and improved the overall performance of the company
