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In this paper we are discussing the details of the improve phase in the DMAIC Framework of Six Sigma. In many efforts to improve the way that things are done people look for the obvious or the fast fix. If the merchandise is broken during shipment or if the wrong items are being sent out the immediate response is to look for a singular cause and change it. The idea that a problem can be solved instantly and without in-depth investigation is naïve but understandable.
In these phase the dramatic improvement is put into action where defect rates are eliminated and the sigma level is raised far higher than it has ever before. But for this to occur, we have to ensure that these improvements are made at all process segments where defects have occurred or could occur in future. We can also experiment with alternatives which includes testing of different solution ideas that fits well with the precepts of the scientific method.
Most Processes are dynamic rather than stationary so even if today’s solution are effective we have to allow flexibility for future change so the improve phase is going to be perpetual and has to be designed to allow for additional changes in the future.
Defects no matter what the cause can be studied from several different angles, or points of view. But there is always a reason and once we come o understand the reasons behind the defects we can eliminate the frequency of those defects not completely but enough so that the rate of defects fall.
In Six Sigma we:
In the tangible world we can locate the cause of defects by asking these questions .The process is itself tangible because we can easily count units of production and spot defects.
In Improve phase we can also make use of formula to find the expected profit which is very handy in risk and mitigation Expected Profit =Σ(Profit * Probability) where n= total number of outcomes.
In my ending remark I want to emphasize that the Core of Six Sigma is the DMAIC and you have to be thorough of the tools and process in each phase and implement it in the improve phase of the DMAIC.
For Comments and queries the Author Suresh V. Menon who is a subject matter expert on ERP and a Six Sigma Trainer can be contacted at testconsultants@outlook.com.
