If you control the inputs, you will control the outputs. Processes require inputs (x) and produce outputs (y). Philosophy: The philosophical perspective of Six Sigma views all work as processes that can be defined, measured, analyzed, improved, and controlled.

A management environment that supports these initiatives as a business strategy.

Emphasis on the DMAIC approach to problem solving: define, measure, analyze, improve, and control.

These key people are designated 'Black Belts.' Review the different Six Sigma belts, levels, and roles.

Training in 'statistical thinking' at all levels and providing key people with extensive training in advanced statistics and project management.

The use of teams that are assigned well-defined projects that have a direct impact on the organization's bottom line.

The differing definitions below have been proposed for Six Sigma, but they all share some common threads:

Differing opinions on the definition of Six Sigmaĭiffering opinions on the definition of Six Sigma.'Six Sigma quality' is a term generally used to indicate a process is well controlled (within process limits ☓s from the center line in a control chart, and requirements/tolerance limits ☖s from the center line). This increase in performance and decrease in process variation helps lead to defect reduction and improvement in profits, employee morale, and quality of products or services.

Six Sigma is a method that provides organizations tools to improve the capability of their business processes.

6 sigma analysis