The real cost-reduction benefits only start to appear when quality reaches very high levels. This relationship explains the commonly observed phenomenon of quality programs not paying off in the...
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22Aug
Using the Theory of Constraints to Choose Six Sigma Projects
If you choose the wrong projects it's possible to make big "improvements" in quality and productivity that have absolutely no impact on net profit.
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18Aug
Human Metrics in Six Sigma
Six Sigma teaches us to view everything as a process. We should take an objective look at the system, measure the values, form a model, enact changes on the...
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04Aug
Thinking Outside the Box With PCA
A common problem with SPC is that the world appears too complicated for a statistical approach to work. In complex electronics products, for example, circuit boards may have thousands...
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03Aug
Preventing Hospital Falls with Six Sigma
Hospital processes produce many things. Most of them are desirable outcomes, such as healthy newborn babies, new hip joints, cancer-free patients and blood flowing freely through once-blocked coronary arteries....
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01Aug
When in Doubt, Get the X-Chart Out!
In other words, if all that are available are the percentages, the X-chart provides an excellent approximation to the P-chart.
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23Jul
Recognizing a Six Sigma Project Opportunity
Lean Six Sigma projects must help the organization achieve its goals. To accomplish this you must take action that guarantees that your project activities are directly linked to the...
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14Apr
How to Calculate Process Yields
Sam handed Peter a computer printout and asked, “If the yields are so high, why is my efficiency so low?” Peter, a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, studied the...
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13Apr
Six Sigma Roadmap for Small Businesses
Many Six Sigma experts have expressed doubt that Six Sigma can be used effectively in small, or even in some medium-sized, organizations. However, while the approach to deployment must...
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12Apr
101 Things a Black Belt Should Know
In general, a Six Sigma Black Belt should be quantitatively oriented.
With minimal guidance, the Six Sigma Black Belt should be able to use data to convert broad generalizations into...