Six Sigma and Lean Concepts

Flashcards focusing on key terms and concepts from Six Sigma and Lean methodologies.

Six Sigma

A data-driven approach aimed at improving quality by reducing defects and variation.

DMAIC

An acronym for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control; a framework used in Six Sigma to improve processes.

DPMO

Defects Per Million Opportunities; a measure used in Six Sigma to determine process or product quality.

Lean

A methodology that focuses on waste reduction while improving flow and efficiency.

JIT

Just In Time; a strategy to improve return on investment by reducing in-process inventory.

Poka-Yoke

A mistake-proofing mechanism to prevent errors in manufacturing.

Check sheet

A tool used to collect data systematically for analysis.

Fishbone diagram

A visualization tool used to identify root causes of a problem.

CTQ

Critical To Quality; measurable characteristics of a product or service that are important to customers.

RACI

A responsibility assignment matrix used to clarify roles and responsibilities in a project.

FMEA

Failure Modes and Effects Analysis; a method for identifying potential failures in a system and their impacts.

5 Whys

A problem-solving technique that explores the cause-and-effect relationships underlying a problem.

SIPOC

An acronym for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers; a high-level process mapping tool.

Takt time

The pace at which production should occur to meet customer demand.

Histogram

A graphical representation showing the distribution of a set of data.

Control chart

A statistical tool used to determine if a process is in a state of control.

Pareto principle

The idea that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes, often used in quality control to find the most significant factors.

Type I error

False positive; rejecting the null hypothesis when it is actually true.

Type II error

False negative; failing to reject the null hypothesis when it is false.