Why is Six Sigma Efficient?

Six Sigma has evolved to become a methodology which is a sure shot way to success in the recent years. Most multinational companies, as well as start-ups, have started implementing Six Sigma in their business activities. Analyzing date from previous outcomes of companies can be a major factor that could help improve the company’s overall performance. Introducing Six Sigma methodology in these processes can greatly improve efficiency and reduce errors. Six Sigma also improves the quality of the product and brings greater customer satisfaction. It is effectively a data-driven approach that measures variations in processes and focuses on eliminating defects as best possible.

1. The tested methodology of success:

It was originally adopted by many technology companies like Motorola that implemented Six Sigma in their manufacturing processes. This brought down their number to defects by a large ratio and thus opened opportunities to other companies to implement this methodology on their own processes. It quickly became clear that it is applicable to most businesses, be it small scale or large scale industries.

2. Builds upon existing processes:

Six Sigma methodology basically depends on studying the existing processes involved in a business and making them better. It studies the possible outcomes, feasibility, and other factors such as time and cost to gauge the efficiency of processes. These are then modified to bring about the best possible results.

3. Root cause analysis:

One of the key advantages of applying Six Sigma in development stages is that it refines the processes. The leaders or managers can identify root causes of defects or the processes that cause these defects. They are equipped with the tools like process mapping analysis and cause-effect diagrams that are necessary to combat these causes and avoid them from occurring. This allows them to dig deeper into problems and reduce the time taken in rectifying issues.

4. Stating the problem:

Six Sigma also has a very important factor that is essential to bring out a solution to any problem That is, to state exactly what the problem is, or defining the problem. It uses the “5 Whys” technique, which is stating the problem and then asking “why”. You keep asking this question and evaluating the answers up to five times. This helps to remove layers of symptoms and discover the root cause. This can greatly reduce the time taken in identifying the problem.

Six Sigma is highly beneficial to highly complex tasks that are otherwise difficult to analyze and improve. It is highly data-driven and is a process-oriented approach. They help the organization to simplify tasks at hand without compromising on quality. It also helps identify opportunities that were previously invisible and increases efficiency and productivity. It also helps implement changes to complex processes without tampering with the integrity and flow of work. By continuously developing and implementing the changes, it also ensures that there is no halt in the work process.