Six Sigma is a set of techniques and tools for process improvement that was introduced by American engineer Bill Smith while working at Motorola in 1986. It is a methodology used to improve business processes by utilizing statistical analysis rather than guesswork. Six Sigma strategies seek to improve manufacturing quality by identifying and removing the causes of defects and minimizing variability in manufacturing and business processes. The term "Six Sigma" refers to a statistical measure of how far a process deviates from perfection. A process that operates at six sigma has a failure rate of only 0.00034%, which means it produces virtually no defects.
Each Six Sigma project follows a defined methodology and has specific value targets, such as reducing pollution or increasing customer satisfaction. The methodology is called DMAIC, which stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. Six Sigma practitioners use statistics, financial analysis, and project management to achieve improved business functionality and better quality control by identifying and then correcting mistakes or defects in existing processes.
The Six Sigma methodology has been adopted by many companies around the world, including General Electric, Toyota, and Amazon, and is used in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and service industries to improve customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and increase profits. Six Sigma practitioners can earn certifications modeled on the color belts used in martial arts.
