Define

• Project charter – defines the problem, project goal, scope, measurables and timeframe
• SIPOCR – visual representation of the project charter (acronym stands for Suppliers, Input, Process, Output, Customers, Requirements)
• Voice of customer – defines measurable customer requirements
  

Measure

• Process map – diagram of steps in the process with inputs and outputs
• 5 whys – use to drill down to root causes
• Fishbone diagram – use to channel brainstorm potential root causes
• Cause & effect matrix – use to prioritise the impact of potential root causes
• Failure Modes & Effects Analysis – use to evaluate risk of failure
• Measurement System Analysis – use to determine if the measurement system is satisfactory
• Capability Analysis – use to assess capability of a process to meet customer requirements
• Control Charts – use to assess the stability of a process over time

Analyse

• Graphical Analysis – use to analyze process outputs and inputs
• Tests of means – tests whether differences in mean of samples could have happened by chance
• Tests of variances – tests whether differences in variance of samples could have happened by chance
• Nonparametric tests – as above but for non-normal data
• Tests of proportions – tests whether differences in proportions of samples could have happened by chance
• Correlation and regression – tests relationships between variable inputs and outputs

Improve

• Design of experiment – use to determine relationships between inputs and outputs
• Process modelling – use to simulate the process for “what if” analysis and control
• Solution identification techniques – use to generate possible solutions
• Payoff matrix – use to prioritise possible solutions
• Improvement criteria matrix – use to prioritise possible solutions
• Implementation planning – use to plan project

Control

• Standardised work – everyone follows the current best method which is continually improved
• Visual management – use to aid standards and control
• Process control system (PCS) – use to control the process
• Monitoring & response plan – use to identify responses for out of control conditions
• Training plan – plan for operators

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