Process Design for Six Sigma (DFSS)

Designing a new process, or dramatically improving an existing one, is handled best by following a structured process. Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) has a five phase development process with the DMADV acronym. This acronym stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, and Validate, but what does it actually mean with regard to a development project?

The Define Phase is best described as the Development Project Definition. Where the keys to success are:

• Development Project Charter


• Business Case


• Deliverables based Project Plan with defined gate review requirements


• Risk management plan based upon FMEA results


• Organizational change management plan

The Measure Phase is best described as the Requirements Definition. Where the keys to success are:

• Voice of the Customer Requirements that include internal and external customers and suppliers to the process


• Functional requirements for the process to mitigate risks


• QFD analysis to prioritize VOC requirements and Functional Requirements


• Staffing skill sets based upon functional requirements


• Defined performance metrics (KPMs) and tracking requirements for the process

The Analyze Phase is best described as the Conceptual Design. Where the keys to success are:

• Detailed descriptions of the processes needed to satisfy prioritized functional requirements


• SIPOC process maps for each of the processes and IT supporting systems


• Roles, responsibilities, and staffing requirements to execute the processes


• Evaluation of process design’s capability to meet KPMs and VOC requirements

The Design Phase is best described as the Detailed Design. Where the keys to success are:

• QFD analysis of Functional Requirements versus Process Components and Systems


• Detailed future state deployment (swim lane) process maps


• Management and Control Plans


• Job descriptions for required staffing


• Pilot test plans for processes and IT supporting systems

The Validate Phase is best described as Test, Validate, and Implement. Where the keys to success are:

• Develop policies, procedures, and work instructions to execute all future state processes
  
• Pilot test future state processes with the policies, procedures, and work instructions
  
• Train process personnel and implement the future state processes on a full scale
  
• Implement the Management and Control Plans
  

Process Design for Six Sigma requires collaboration among the process stakeholders. Often being face to face for the collaborative meetings is not possible from a logistics, or cost standpoint, which is where on-line Webinars provide the solution.

At EducateVirtually.com we provide the facilitation and coaching required for extremely productive Webinars that accelerate the DFSS process. We have found that communication is enhanced and documentation is more complete using internet based meetings. New processes have been developed and implemented in as little as 12 weeks starting from a clean sheet of paper.

For additional information, or to contact us visit EducateVirtually.com