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Six Sigma Part 5: Different Techniques to implement Six Sigma

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Six Sigma uses various statistical and data-based techniques to improve the existing process and develop a new approach to eliminate waste from the manufacturing process.  Following are the essential techniques used in industries to implement the concept of Six Sigma:   [1] Brainstorming:  It is one of the essential techniques usually applied in the “improving” phase of the DMAIC Methodology. Brainstorming involves thinking and developing creative ideas to approach a particular problem. A typically green belt or black belt person heads the brainstorming session in the industry.   [2] Root cause analysis:  It is also called the why technique, which is used to find the root cause of the problem in a particular manufacturing process. It is used in the “analyze” phase in the DMAIC cycle.    [3] V.O.C.:  It stands for “Voice of customer” and is one of the essential techniques for six sigma implementations. The feedback of the customer is...

Six Sigma Part 4: DMAIC vs DMADV Methodology

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DMAIC and DMADV are used to improve the existing process or develop new process according to principles of Six sigma. There are various similarities and differences between two methods, which will be discussed in detail. [1] Similarities between DMAIC and DMADV: Both uses structured method to reduce variations and solve the problem A group of members are used to solve any problem Both the methodology collects and analyze data to make any informed decision Both are customer focused  They have many tools in common (Brainstorming, Design of experiments, Failure mode and effect analysis) ·     [2] Difference between DMAIC and DMADV:     DMAIC as the full form suggests addresses the current process and DMADV addresses the design process.     DMAIC aims at reducing or eliminating defects in the existing process (reactive) while DMADV aims at preventing defects (proactive).   The solution of DMAIC is specific, while DMADV is the part of solution desi...

Six Sigma Part 3: DMADV Methodology

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DMADV is the six sigma methodology focusses on the development of new method to reduce error as compared to the existing process. It stands for Define, measure, analyze , design and validate. The DMADV methodology should be applied: [1] When there is new product or process to be developed in the industry. [2] When the existing process need to change to meet the customer need and principles of Six sigma. Each terminology in acronym is a stage of process, defined as below: [1] Define: Define the process and design goals. [2] Measure: Measure and identify critical quality characteristics of the product. This may include the overall risk and production capabilities. [3] Analyze : Analyze the collected date from the measurement to find the best design. [4] Design: Design the new product, process or service to replace the existing one. [5] Validate: Validate the final designed process, product or service for customer satisfaction and six sigma principles. DMADVO is the ex...

Six Sigma Part 2: DMAIC Methodology

DMAIC is an acronym for define, measure, analyse, improve and control. It focusses on the improvement of existing process in industry to minimize the junk. D: Define the goal of the project and customer deliverables (both external and internal). M: Measure the process to check the current performance and quantify the problem with data. A: Deeply analyse the root cause of the defect in the process. I: Improve the process by eliminating all the defects. C: Control the process after the defect elimination for future working. The detailed step in each process of DMAIC are as follows (from simplilearn ): [1]. Define: Step 1: The business problem is defined from the customer perspective. Step 2: Goals are set. What do you want to achieve? What are the resources you will use to achieve the goals? Step 3: Map the process. Verify with the stakeholders that you are on the right track.   [2] Measure: Step 1: Measure your problem in numbers or with supporting dat...

Six Sigma Part 1: Introduction

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Six Sigma is a statistical method developed to reduce errors in manufacturing products in the industry. The buzzword of quality management was introduced by Motorola company in 1986 . Over the years, error reduction has increased with the advancement of technology and automation in the manufacturing process. Six Sigma consists of the statistical terminology “sigma” or “σ” known as standard deviation, denoting deviation of absolute value from the actual value. As the level of sigma increases (from one to six), the deviation from the actual value also decreases. For example, the three-sigma level has 93.32% accuracy , while the six-sigma level has 99.9996% accuracy . Key Principles of Six Sigma (article from simplilearn ): The central concept of Six Sigma is to reduce error and deliver near-perfect goods to the customer. It serves five critical principles for reduction of error and producing near-perfect goods, which are as follows: [1] Focus on the customer:  In Industry, ...

Just in Time Inventory Management

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As the name suggests, just in time (JIT) is the inventory management method where the stocks are received from the supplier at the time of their requirement. This decreases inventory holding costs and increases the inventory revenue turnover by increasing cash flow in the business. The entire process of Just in time inventory management requires proper planning of the whole supply chain and the usage of superior software to plan the industrial task to eliminate any error in the process. Following are some acute effects of the Just in time inventory management system:   [1] Gives Manufacturer more control:  The Manufacturer gets more control in the JIT inventory management model. It helps them to Manufacturer at varying speeds to cater to ever-changing market needs. For example, Toyota orders raw materials when an order is received, which allows them to reduce the inventory holding cost and gives the Manufacturer more control in product manufacturing.   [2] Decreas...

Inventory Management

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Inventory management helps managers decide the quantity of raw material (stock and required) to be ordered for normal and increased demand. The proper practice ensures that the industry has suitable supplies for any demand fluctuation and eliminates any chance of a shortage.  Inventory stored is converted into revenue once it reaches the customers. Excess amount of inventory stored reduces the cash flow and costs money to keep the stock.  The benefit of Inventory management: [1] Improve cash flow:  If the amount of stock stored is equal to the customer's requirement, then the industry's cash flow will be faster. All the supplies will be converted into revenue, and there will be no or minimal waste.  [2] Saves money:  Understanding stock trends means you see how much of and where you have something in stock, so you're better able to use your supply. [3] Satisfying the customer: Proper  inventory management will help customers receive the product wit...