• Collinearity

    You’ve gathered the data and ran the regression analysis. Strangely, the biggest regression weights have insignificant p-values. Some weights even have the wrong sign! What the heck is going on here? Listen to this podcast to find out.

  • Introducing Pyzdek Process Excellence Pointers: Addressing Six Sigma

    Welcome to the first installment of the Pyzdek Process Excellence Pointers blog, where we discuss all things Process Excellence. This post summarizes our inaugural podcast, hosted by Tom Pyzdek. Who is Tom Pyzdek? Tom Pyzdek has a rich 40-year history in Process Excellence. With a wide range of experience that spans from manufacturing toys and…

  • Typical Six Sigma Project Tasks and Responsibilities

    Although every project is unique, most Six Sigma projects which use the DMAIC framework have many tasks in common, at least at a general level. Many people find it helpful if they have a generic “template” they can use to plan their project activities. This is especially true when the Black Belt or Green Belt…

  • Is Six Sigma the Next Step in Quality Enhancement?

    Is Six Sigma the Next Step in Quality Enhancement?

    Understanding the distinctions between Six Sigma and Total Quality Management (TQM) In my previous post, ‘Why Six Sigma Is Not TQM‘, I proposed that Six Sigma is inherently distinct from Total Quality Management (TQM) in numerous ways. This assertion evoked diverse responses from many readers, some disagreeing with certain points I put forth. While I…

  • Ignore Six Sigma at Your Peril

    Ignore Six Sigma at Your Peril

    The Jan. 22, 2001, issue of Fortune contained an article that offered readers risky advice–namely, that Six Sigma could be ignored without adverse consequences.1 Don’t believe it. To be fair, the article is directed toward investors, not managers. The author’s point is that Six Sigma alone won’t make a company successful. On that, I am…

  • The Role of Freedom vs. Permission in Six Sigma Implementation

    The Role of Freedom vs. Permission in Six Sigma Implementation

    Six Sigma betters an organization at all levels. At the highest level, this involves moving the entire organization from three- or four-sigma business processes to six-sigma business processes, which requires reducing defects by a factor of more than 20,000, completely transforming the organization’s culture. But this can’t be accomplished by simply tweaking the process; it…

  • Applying Virtual DOE in the Real World

    A case study from the manufacturing sector showcases the advantages of data mining and artificial neural networks. In a prior discussion, I outlined the process of implementing a virtual design of experiments (VDOE) using artificial neural networks and data mining techniques. Today, we delve into a practical instance from the manufacturing realm that underlines how…

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