The Six Sigma DMADV Process Flow
In the Six Sigma implementation process, Six Sigma DMADV is an acronym that stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Design and Verify. It is also called Design for Six Sigma; DFSS. It is an implementation methodology adopted by many businesses using this particular strategic plan for quality improvement.
The Six Sigma DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, and Verify) method is suitable for developing new products as opposed to the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) process, used for improving existing products or services. The acronym simply shows the steps followed in implementing a project using the DMADV or DMAIC models. Companies follow each step keenly to make sure a quality design that meets the need of their client is created. It might be challenging, but when fully implemented, one can easily tell the results are worth the trouble.
Following the five steps closely, it is possible to understand the idea behind DMADV. Let us start with, definition of goals or problem as denoted by the first letter D. This involves coming up with specific goals for creating a new product or solving an existing issue. Of course the voice of customer is taken into consideration here as the ultimate goal of many businesses is to delight the customer through offering quality products and services. However, the business interests should also ultimately be considered. This calls for a balance between the two when planning, to come up with goals that benefit both the organization and customers according to the Six Sigma Methodology.
After identification of the problem, measurement of a business’ capability to produce the said product follows. In this stage, the risks involved with the set project are also assessed. The characteristics of the process that are ‘critical to quality’ (usually referred to as CTQs) are also measured here and the team decides whether it is worth to take up the project. This is essentially where all of the data is collecting that might be necessary as the Six Sigma Process is deeply rooted in statistical theory.
In the third phase, the team analyzes all the designs they have come up with to see if they solve the said problem or there are alternatives. This is done by statistical analysis done on the data collected during the previous measurement phase of the process. The design with the highest probability to give the desired results is chosen at this point. The team therefore, proceeds to the next level.
It is now possible to go into the details of the chosen design. An excellent strategy will optimize the production process, coming up with a design that has essential zero defects as defined by the Six Sigma DPMO goal of less than 3.4 defects per million opportunities. It may be necessary to do simulation to establish whether the design is practical before creating it. Once the new product is created, the team can now plan on the verification process.
Verification of the design may involve product tests and advertisement to see if it meets the demands of the customer, or it performs as intended. This is a critical stage of this methodology as it determines if the project was a success or not. If a fault is found, the Six Sigma team looks back to see the probable ways of correcting and defects or flaws that are hopefully not found. Better ways are also sought at this point to accomplish the desired results. It is now possible to hand the design to the business owners if it meets the proposed qualifications.
In conclusion, the Six Sigma DMADV method is highly recommended for those businesses whose goal is to offer new quality products and services to their clients. This helps the business to stand out among its competitors and reach success more quickly.