Implementing Six Sigma

We are in the 21^st century, meaning that competition in the business sector is getting tougher and tougher day by day. Therefore in order to maintain within the competition it is important that all manufacturing and development processes remain fierce and precise. Thus there is a massive pressure upon all companies to maximise quality and decrease costs. By using a Six Sigma approach companies can directly answer these demands in a productive way.

The six sigma methodology directly attacks any poor quality methods which are currently in place. Therefore six sigma looks at what is currently happening, where the pitfalls are and ultimately corrects them. Thus all defects are controlled and abolished. Any issues regarding quality can and will affect a business, in fact it can affect a business to the extent of liquidation. Therefore it is vital that all quality procedures are put in place.

Where did Six Sigma begin?

Bill Wiggenhorn, who was the vice president of Motorola first introduced this methodology to the world many years ago in his first edition of implementing Six sigma. Since then hundreds of thousands of companies and individuals have experienced the use of six sigma – in fact you will find many of their success stories online.

Moving forward from simply six sigma, is the relationship between six sigma and that of lean. Although many argue that six sigma is above lean, in truth, in many organisations they marry very well together. Whilst working with both lean and six sigma it is very important to weigh up all defects in the system and functions which currently exist. Six sigma and lean work together as a fire guard to protect any problems from occurring, they work together and are equal in this.

However, whilst six sigma is beneficial to all and has the ability to help any organisation large or small, it will only work if used wisely. Six Sigma must be taught professionally and understood coherently to work.

Six Sigma isn’t merely a methodology, it is a practise.