ABSTRACT
In statistical terms, Six Sigma means that a process produces no more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities. In broader terms, Six Sigma is a highly structured data-driven methodology for problem solving and variation reduction. When following Six Sigma improvement projects, two separate processes can be followed, DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve, and control) and DMADV (define, measure, analyze, design, verify). The DMAIC process is used when an existing process needs to be improved, while the DMADV process is utilized when a new process needs to be developed. Although this chapter focuses on the DMAIC flow, the DMADV process is slightly similar with the difference being that the focus of the various phases is on understanding what is needed and developing a new process. DMAIC focuses on understanding the current state and improving it.
