What are the best practices for applying DMAIC to consulting projects?

1 Define the problem

The first step of DMAIC is to define the problem that you are trying to solve for your client. This involves clarifying the scope, objectives, deliverables, and stakeholders of the project, as well as the current state and desired state of the process or system that you are working on. A clear problem statement will help you focus your efforts and communicate your value proposition to your client. You can use tools such as SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers) diagrams, stakeholder maps, and voice of the customer surveys to gather relevant information and define the problem.

2 Measure the performance

The second step of DMAIC is to measure the performance of the current process or system that you are trying to improve. This involves collecting and analyzing data on key metrics, such as cycle time, defect rate, customer satisfaction, and cost. You need to establish a baseline for the current performance and identify the gaps and opportunities for improvement. You can use tools such as data collection plans, process maps, histograms, and Pareto charts to measure the performance and display the data.

3 Analyze the root causes

The third step of DMAIC is to analyze the root causes of the problem that you are trying to solve. This involves identifying and verifying the factors that contribute to the poor performance or variation of the process or system. You need to use data and logic to test your hypotheses and validate your assumptions. You can use tools such as fishbone diagrams, 5 whys, correlation analysis, and hypothesis testing to analyze the root causes and prioritize the most significant ones.

4 Improve the solution

The fourth step of DMAIC is to improve the solution that you are proposing to your client. This involves generating, evaluating, and selecting the best ideas to address the root causes and improve the performance of the process or system. You need to use creativity and innovation to come up with feasible and effective solutions that meet the client's needs and expectations. You can use tools such as brainstorming, benchmarking, design of experiments, and pilot testing to improve the solution and demonstrate its benefits.

5 Control the results

The fifth and final step of DMAIC is to control the results that you have achieved with your solution. This involves implementing, monitoring, and sustaining the improvements that you have made to the process or system. You need to use standardization and documentation to ensure that the changes are adopted and maintained by the client and the stakeholders. You can use tools such as control charts, control plans, audits, and feedback loops to control the results and ensure their quality and consistency.