Six Sigma is a popular and powerful methodology for improving the quality and efficiency of business processes. It aims to reduce defects, errors, and variation by applying data-driven tools and techniques. But how can you master Six Sigma and apply it to your own projects and career? Here are some steps to help you get started.
Before you dive into the details of Six Sigma, you need to have a clear understanding of its core principles and concepts. Six Sigma is based on the idea that any process can be measured, analyzed, improved, and controlled using statistical methods. It also follows a structured approach called DMAIC, which stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. Each phase of DMAIC has specific goals, tools, and deliverables that guide the improvement project. You can learn the basics of Six Sigma by reading books, taking online courses, or attending workshops.
Six Sigma provide you the guideline to success in the continuous improvement process, certification is very important however the management real compromise to improve and step forward, will make the difference, it may be important to include management as the whole process stakeholders to understand very clearly the Sig Sigma approach.
First you understand what six sigma is, its properties are, its application, why it is used and where, the purpose of using six sigma is to measure the quality of a product or a process? Is it a mathematical function or a statistical measure of what? There is no such thing that one size fits for all. Many institutions and consultants give a false sense of Six Sigma to lure the people to sign up for the program and they play all the tricks to lure you into their circle. Do you know that they will never tell you the application of Six Sigma and statistics for the success of a program or business, if you don't know the application why you waste your time and money to listen the magic show they perform in front of you?
If you want to demonstrate your proficiency in Six Sigma, you can pursue a certification from a reputable organization. There are different levels of certification, ranging from White Belt to Master Black Belt, depending on your experience and skills. Each level requires you to pass an exam and, in some cases, complete a project or portfolio. The certification level you choose depends on your role and goals in your organization. For example, if you are a beginner or a team member, you might opt for a Yellow Belt or a Green Belt. If you are a leader or a trainer, you might aim for a Black Belt or a Master Black Belt.
One of the best ways to master Six Sigma is to learn from someone who has already done it. A mentor or a coach can provide you with valuable guidance, feedback, and support throughout your Six Sigma journey. They can help you understand the concepts, apply the tools, and overcome the challenges of your project. They can also help you prepare for your certification exam and enhance your career opportunities. You can find a mentor or a coach within your organization, through your network, or online.
You just search the internet and find how many automotive vehicles are being recalled annually. That number may shock you and you know all those automotive manufacturers have their ISO certification and Six Sigma process applications in place. This is what I asked to one of our suppliers who showed me their ISO certification and Six Sigma certificates and he was very proud of it, my simple question was to show me your MRB activities, and he showed me around 15% to 20% full time function there. You may wonder what my answer was to him - You know this certificate has no value at all and not even good for toilet paper and I have explained the reason of my comments - ISO and Six Sigma does not help you to build quality products.
The best way to master Six Sigma is to practice it on a real project. This will help you gain hands-on experience and confidence in using the methodology. You can choose a project that is relevant to your work, your organization, or your industry. The project should have a clear problem statement, a measurable goal, and a defined scope. You should also follow the DMAIC process and use the appropriate tools and techniques for each phase. You should document your project and share your results and learnings with your stakeholders.
Understand the six sigma basics is very important , but understanding its restrictions is more important . Like : -Six Sigma never work on assignable cause of variation - Should be data driven - process should be stable - the project must have a real financial value added revenue ( what's in it for me) - the most important challenge , six sigma as a problem solving methodology , should applied on problem with unknown cause. If you know the cause , then why you go through the difficult way ?!! Go and just do it. (Except Yellow belt)
You do a reality check before you start any project supported by six sigma. When 1+1=2 and 1+1= 1.85 with 0.15% margin of error or uncertainty or risk? Understand yourself fully before you start the very hot projects using Six Sigma or lean Six Sigma. The word "Continuous improvement" on a project, what is the meaning of it? To me there is some sort of failures down the line of that project, is it? If so, how long it might take to fool proof or fail proof the project? Do you think your employer or the one who is funding the project would continuously pour money into that project? Just think about it. It is not a magic show dear folks, it is real.
Six Sigma is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of learning and improving. To master Six Sigma, you need to keep updating your knowledge and skills, and applying them to new and different situations. You can do this by reading books, articles, blogs, and case studies on Six Sigma. You can also join online communities, forums, and groups where you can interact with other Six Sigma practitioners and experts. You can also attend webinars, seminars, conferences, and events related to Six Sigma. You can also seek feedback from your mentor, coach, peers, and customers on how you can improve your performance and results.