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Six Sigma

Six Sigma has been developed to improve processes and eliminate defects and had been inspired by quality improvement methods like TQM and quality management. The two key methods for six sigma are DMAIC and DMADV, also referred to as DSFF (Design For Six Sigma). Both of these approaches are implemented by either Green, Black or Master Black Belts since they are data intensive solutions and there are little room for error.
DMAIC
DMAIC is used on existing business processes to make any necessary improvement and eliminate any defect or inefficiency with the process. By using the DMAIC tools, methods and practices, companies can receive strong benefit from this approach. This approach is successful because small groups are trained to adhere to the approach and not go back and forth in completing specific task. The success of this approach depends on team discipline, structure metrics, toolsets and executing a project plan with clear and precise goals and objectives (Creveling, 2007). It is important for companies to utilize this approach across the board to keep everyone on the same page. As Creveling puts it, “We use DMAIC Six Sigma when things blow up and a crisis ensues” (para. 7). According to Creveling (2007), the acronym DMAIC means:
Defining the problem.
Measuring the process and gathering the data associated with the problem.
Analyzing the data to identify cause-and-effect relationship between key variables.
Improving the process to eliminate the problem.
Controlling the process to eliminate the problem and if it returned the process is controlled.
DMADV
DMADV is used on new processes to create defect-free processes, also it is used to redesign processes that cannot be improved due to their current design using the DMAIC method (Creveling, 20007). The DMADV approach to Six Sigma is not only used to improve processes but to also

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