7 steps to six sigma project success

photo credit: gautschi.r

What the seven key steps to make sure your six-sigma project stays on track? Read on ….

During project execution, it is important to

1. lead a focus effort in which the project Champion is responsible for conducting a project review, uses his authority to solve cross-functional problems and allocate needed resources.
2. check for real financial impact (see Finance Department involvement below)
3. continuously communicate progress to executive leadership and those involved in the projects.
4. implement effective control plans including such documents as Process Maps, C&E Matrix, FMEA, Control Plan Summary and approved procedure changes to ensure that improvements are maintained.
5. review the project’s effectiveness at regularly scheduled intervals;
6. roles and responsibilities of relevant parties should be clearly defined;
7. conduct regular Six Sigma training to reinforce the initiative throughout the company.

Finance Department involvement
The finance department needs to be involved from the beginning of each project to ensure that cost savings are being tracked for each Six Sigma project and actually being reflected in the bottom line. Project baseline and claimed improvements must be strictly verified by finance team. Improvements are converted into dollar amount savings whenever possible and deducted if any cost arises due to the project.