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Six Sigma: DMAIC Methodology

Last Updated April 22, 2022

A table with glasses of water and paper with graphs on them.

Professionals seeking leadership opportunities in business may be interested in developing a more in-depth understanding of Six Sigma’s DMAIC methodology. Used to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of organizational processes across the industry, “DMAIC” is an acronym indicating Six Sigma business performance guidelines used to Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control business performance. Collectively, the process becomes a powerful tool to lead an organization to stronger performance standards and can be skillfully used to streamline resources and clarify business goals.

The Six Sigma DMAIC Methodology Approach

Define

The main objective of this stage is to outline the borders of the project.

  • Stakeholders agree on the parameters that will define the project
  • Scope and budgetary items, as well as customer needs, are aligned with project goals
  • Team development takes place as the project begins to take shape

Measure

The main objective is to collect data pertinent to the scope of the project.

  • Leaders collect reliable baseline data to compare against future results
  • Teams create a detailed map of all interrelated business processes to elucidate areas of possible performance enhancement

Analyze

The main objective is to reveal the root cause of business inefficiencies.

  • Analysis of data reveals areas where the implementation of change can provide the most effective results
  • Groups discuss ways that the data underscores areas ripe for improvement

Improve

The main objective at the end of this stage is to complete a test run of a change that is to be widely implemented.

  • Teams and stakeholders devise methods to address the process deficiencies uncovered during the data analysis process
  • Groups finalize and test a change that is aimed at mitigating the ineffective process
  • Improvements are ongoing and include feedback analysis and stakeholder participation

Control

The objective of the last stage of the methodology is to develop metrics that help leaders monitor and document continued success.

  • Six Sigma strategies are adaptive and on-going.
  • Adjustments can be made and new changes may be implemented as a result of the completion of this first cycle of the process.

At the end of the cycle, additional processes are either addressed or the initial project is completed.

Six Sigma methodologies can be rolled out in a matter of months or over the course of years. From large international companies to mid-size firms, many high-profile companies have implemented Six Sigma strategies as a way of saving corporate dollars, increasing quality, and leveraging the competitive edge.

The dynamic strategies of Six Sigma continue to evolve and are shaped by industry leaders who actively participate in professional organizations and other career development activities, such as continuing education. Professionals looking to pursue Six Sigma certification through the standard Green Belt and Black Belt progression can do so online.

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