DMAIC

Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control is a formal problem-solving process, and a major tool of Lean Six Sigma, based on formula Y= f(X), metric that measures the problem.

Define

The first step is to identify a problem. Lean six sigma approach utilizes Y=f(X), a function that defines one variable in terms of another. The statement “y is a function of x” (denoted y = y(x)) means that y varies according to whatever value x takes on.

Example: Quality=f(Process control, Raw material, Equipment etc.)

• Cost of Poor Quality
• Critical To matrix
• Pareto Chart
• SIPOC
• Voice of the customer
• Kano Analysis
• Survey Design

Measure

Capture data on the Y metric (if not already available in Define) and “Potentials X’s” that we believe could impact the Y.

• SIPOC
• Stakeholder analysis
• Spaghetti chart
• Check Sheet
• SS Analysis
• Process Capability Analysis

Analyze

Through your process, the graphical and statistical analysis identifies the “Critical X’s” (or Root Causes) that truly impact the Y.

• Ishikawa diagram
• Cause and Effect Matrix
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
• Correlation and Regression
• Hypothesis testing

Improve

Identify and test solutions to the Critical X. Rollout out solutions that eliminate the Root Cause

• Regression analysis
• Design of experiment
• Error proofing
• 5S & Visual management
• FMEA

Control

Sustain the improvement by standardizing the new process and monitoring Critical X’s & Y

• Control plan + chart
• Audit plan
• Total Productive Maintenance
• New process capability analysis
• FMEA