This is where the magic happens - the Improve phase of Six Sigma's DMAIC. Just like with 'real' magic, much of the heavy lifting has already been done in the previous preparatory phases, but the Improve phase is where we come up with and test countermeasures to problems and/or set the most stable process parameters. All to ensure maximal performance and stable production.
There are not too many traditional Six Sigma tools in this phase, as you should really be tailoring your approach to the identified process parameters and problem causes. The video does go over some common concepts that will benefit implementation in most cases:
* The use of 5S, ECRS and Kanban to organise the work and workspace
* Thinking about the level of the countermeasure: from reminders, to fool-proofing, to eliminating certain steps totally
While formally, the big money is made in the Control phase (because that's where upscaling to implement your improvements to all shifts on a daily basis and validating the new way of working formally belong), this Improve phase is of course where the money-making process changes are designed. So watch the video for great tips and tricks and a nice jolt of continuous improvement energy.
#continuousimprovement #dmaic #improve
• DMAIC Improve phase
00:00 Introduction to the Improve Phase
01:53 Key Tools and Concepts
03:07 Control Systems and 5S
05:45 Hierarchy of Countermeasures
08:11 Foolproof or Automated
10:43 Eliminate Processes