A Complete Overview of DMAIC and the Six Sigma Belt Levels

1. Have you ever wondered how companies like Motorola reduced defects to almost zero or how GE saved billions of dollars in just a few years? Part of the answer lies in a methodology called Six Sigma, which is a very effective methodology for driving efficiency in a business. Six Sigma is a structured methodology for businesses to streamline processes, eliminate waste, and enhance overall business performance. No matter if you are in manufacturing, healthcare, or I.T., there are operations improvements to be had by implementing Six Sigma in your organization. Let's review the basic DMAIC model and belt levels by which you can define your level of expertise in this proven methodology. What is Six Sigma? The term “Six Sigma” comes from the Greek letter “Sigma” (σ), which refers to standard deviation in statistics. Six Sigma describes process performance that is statistically no more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities, or near perfection. However, it is more than a number; it is a way of thinking. Six Sigma refers to a data-driven, structured methodology that can be used to eliminate variations, minimize inefficiencies and improve business results no matter your department or industry. The DMAIC Model: A Structured Approach for Improvement At the core of Six Sigma is the five phased DMAIC model used to systematically improve existing processes or systems. ? Define

2. The Define phase is all about clearly identifying the problem. Teams, for instance, need to articulate the project scope, project goals, customer needs, and high-level process flows, utilizing tools like: ● Project Charters ● S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-based) Goal Framework ● SIPOC Diagrams (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers) ? Measure The next step is to quantify the problem in order to measure and collect data, establish baseline performance, and verify the measurement systems that are used to monitor process performance. ? Analyze At this stage, teams identify root causes of why something is not working as intended, whereas teams might use: ● Fishbone Diagrams ● Hypothesis Tests ● Data Segmentation They determine the significant contributors to output variation. ? Improve After root causes and contributors to the system or process have been affirmed, teams develop solutions and take action, evaluating possible solutions through types of activities, such as: ● Brainstorming Sessions ● F.M.E.A (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis) ● Pilot Projects …and any other activity that illustrates action taken in a way that demonstrates all improvements can be easily implemented.

3. ? Control Finally, in controls stage, systems or processes are established, ensuring that action taken relates back to the desired outcomes. Control Plans, revisions to documentation, and other means for monitoring performance, allows you to see if you have sustained gains, as well as, ensure you prevent backsliding. The Belt System in Six Sigma Similar to martial arts, Six Sigma employs a color-coded belt system which identifies various levels of responsibility and mastery. ⚪ White Belt ● Introductory ● Basic understanding of the Six Sigma concepts ● Supports small scale, process improvement teams ? Yellow Belt ● Understand the DMAIC Model ● Participates in Project Teams ● Leverages basic tools for root cause analysis ? Green Belt ● Leads moderate improvement projects ● Works on a part-time basis on Six Sigma efforts ● Trained in statistical methods and project management ⚫ Black Belt ● Leads projects on a full-time basis ● Manages complex cross-functional projects, and manages additional complexities ● Coaches Green Belts, and manages significant change

4. ? Master Black Belt ● An agent for organizational change, who assists all employees ● Develops strategies and training programs ● Oversees several projects, and coaches Black Belts The Importance of Leadership in Six Sigma For Six Sigma to flourish, it needs to be supported by leadership. Leadership consists of the executive, director, and team lead level, and they align the project objectives with a business problem, make available resources for the project, and remove obstacles from the project. The project sponsor/champion is crucial in pushing the project along and holding everyone accountable for every element of the change being improved. Why Do Organizations Invest in Six Sigma? This is not a passing fad for organizations. Six Sigma has proved its worth many times over by providing organizations with a pathway to improve a wide range of business elements including: ● Reduced operating costs ● Improved customer satisfaction ● Directing an organization to continue a culture of data-driven decisions ● Creating long-term improvement strategies Its versatility in being used in many different sectors, including manufacturing, transportation, health care, and IT-related services, makes it even more appealing to organizations. Closing: Start Your Journey with Six Sigma Whether you are completely new to process improvement or a seasoned pro seeking to better your abilities and skills as a leader in improvement, Six Sigma's structure can provide you with a way to achieve excellence. There is a training/learning course for everyone, with bang for buck value; Six Sigma has belts from white belt with pure awareness to team lead, yellow belt and certified leadership and to the advanced black belt. Each belt of training increases capability, consistency, and value. Take baby steps to begin. Be consistent. And with each part of the Six Sigma phases, you can follow the Six Sigma path to improved results on behalf of your organization. There is not better time to embark on a path to quality than now.