Thursday, October 30, 2008

Comparing Design For Six Sigma (DFSS) to DMAIC

By Craig Calvin

Six Sigma is a superior methodology that gives businesses numerous tools in which to usher in improvements in the process of business, as well as achieving a level of minimal defects. Six Sigma makes use of several methodologies, which differ from one another, but also complement each other. These methodologies are also complementary to various types of companies, which displays the beauty of Six Sigma.

Comparing DFSS and DMAIC: DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control and proves beneficial when products or services are already present. What is necessary is only improving upon the processes already there. DFSS, which stands for Design for Six Sigma, is mainly concerned with creating or redesigning an existing service or product. In addition, the DMAIC method is almost entirely the same is any sort of organization, where in DFSS, there is not a specific methodology involved.

DMADV as opposed to DMAIC and DFSS: In all actuality, implementing DFSS is usually done by utilizing the DMADV methodology. DMADV stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Design and Verify, it is also a simplified variant of DFSS.

A comparison with the DMAIC shows that the first two steps Define and Measure are the same. The third step is where the differences start cropping up. According to the DMAIC methodology, the Analyze phase involves analyzing the data collected for the current process and analyzing it to find areas, where improvements and changes can be implemented.

In the DMADV methodology, The difference lies in the Analyze phase, as it is an effort to comprehend the shortfalls in the system in order to bring about a fresh design for the product or service. New products will be developed, due to this analysis. The main target of the DMAIC is the recession of defects and eradication of waste. These are the culprits in resources being used up.

The final difference is this: DMAIC is a standard throughout the continents, where the DFSS is a method that is not standard, since there is not a universally accepted methodology. - 15254

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