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Six Sigma is a set of practices used to systematically improve processes by eliminating defects, which is any nonconformity of a product or service to its specification. To be Six Sigma compliant, a company must produce no more than 3.4 defects per one million products. If this can be achieved, a company has the potential to save billions of dollars, just as Motorola did. The global communications company reported over $17 billion in savings as of 2006, and over the past decade, companies like Bank of America, Caterpillar, Honeywell International, Raytheon, Merrill Lynch, and General Electric have implemented the practice. However, it is much more difficult to implement Six Sigma in small and medium-sized businesses, but it is becoming increasingly important to do so, as larger companies now require their supply bases to be Six Sigma compliant. In The Six Sigma Manual for Small and Medium Businesses, you will learn about the two main methodologies involved with Six Sigma, DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify), as well as various other methodologies advocated by companies around the world, including DCCDI, CDOC, DCDOV, DMADOV, DMEDI, and IDOV. You will also learn about black, green, and yellow belts; the key roles for successful implementation; cost savings; training; responsibilities; and terms specific to Six Sigma. In addition, you will learn how to avoid the common pitfalls and traps found during implementation, how to understand the statistical tools and problem solving techniques, and how to become certified. Also included are detailed examples, diagrams, and practical exercises to help you master the concepts of Six Sigma. Ultimately, you will discover how to improve the quality of your processes and products while increasing customer satisfaction and saving billions of dollars. The Six Sigma Manual for Small and Medium Businesses is for the company that has already implemented the process, an organization who may be considering it, students who want to learn it to make themselves more marketable, and business professionals who need a refresher course. Whatever your reason for reading this book you will find practical advice and tips for successfully learning about and implementing Six Sigma.
