Using Six-Sigma "DMAIC" Process to Improve Processes

Achieving Process Improvement Goals

Lean six-sigma uses the "DMAIC" process. It is a process used to define, measure, analyze, improve, and control business/manufacturing processes. A developer/engineer/manager that is proficient in capitalizing with this process can accomplish milestone process improvements for your business or corporation. Here are some high-level ideas of how each step of the process is used at TSCS, LLC.

• Define – We define the problem or opportunity for improvement. We establish the project goals and customer (internal and external) requirements. We use a project charter to define the focus, scope, direction, and the needed team members & their roles. With this scope we create a value stream map to get an overview of the entire process, analyzing what is needed to meet customer needs.

• Measure – We measure the current process performance by recording all activities performed in the process. We use a {pareto chart to analyze the frequency of problems or causes.

• Analyze – We analyze the process to find the root causes of the defective or poor-performing process. We use Root Cause Analysis (RCA) to find the causes. The second tool we use is the Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA). FMEA helps to identify potential product, service, and process defects.

• Improve – We improve performance by using the first four steps to address and eliminate the root causes found in the Analyze stage. Using a 'DOE' or design of experiments will often be used to solve problems in complex processes or systems where there are many factors adding to the outcome. This will also be used to isolate one variable from the others.

Kaizen events – Rapid change by focusing on a specific project and using the ideas and motivation of the people who do this work daily.

• · Control – We have improved the process and will now have to get a quality control plan to document what is needed to keep the improved process at is current level.

Mistake proofing AKA Poka-Yoke, making errors impossible to reach customers.

5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain) to create workplace safety that is then suited for visual control.

Statistical process control (SPC) for monitoring the process behaviors, this can be manual entry systems, automation, computer programs/software, cameras, etc.

Process Improvement SIPOC using Six-sigma