“X” is often used as the notation for a random variable or independent variable, as in the basic transfer function, Y=f(x). In that notation, y would be the dependent variable. In practical use, X is the variable that you are experimenting on to see what impact it has on the Read more…
The moonshine shop is a team in Lean manufacturing environments that specializes in pushing the envelop of what the company is doing in continuous improvement. It focuses more on experimentation and conceptual work than addressing specific problems. It is named for the similarity to old moonshiners who would set up Read more…
Motorola is the birthplace of Six Sigma. It was conceived by Bill Smith, an engineer at the company, in 1986. Many of the concepts within Six Sigma had been around for a while, but this was the first time that they had been organized into a cohesive system for making Read more…
Most processes are governed by a basic transfer function, Y=f(x). It is pronounced “y equals f of x.” Y is the output, or “dependent variable”. X is the input (or inputs). Essentially, there are some input parameters that affect the output. When you change one of the input variables, you Read more…
Capability Analysis is the act of determining process capability, or the ability of a process to meet a designated set of specifications. It involves a set of statistical calculations to determine whether the spread of the performance of a process fits within the desired specification. There are several terms embedded Read more…
The Analyze Phase of Six Sigma is the third phase of the DMAIC process. It is the phase where the relationship between the variables and outputs are established and quantified. This relationship is often called the ‘transfer function’ and is represented as Y=f(X). Y is the output and is determined Read more…
An autoejector is a tool used to streamline production. It is also known by the Japanese term, hanedashi. In a cell where a single operator is running several machines, he will often work with multiple parts. That’s not to say it is a random number. There should be a defined Read more…
The 3P Process Overview Form provides an at-a-glance view of the final process steps that will be implemented. It is a communication tool, as well as a review tool. By going through the process of filling out this form, the team will make sure they have considered each process step Read more…
The 7 Ways Comparison form is a tool used to show an at-a-glance view of 7 process options created as the result of a brainstorming session. It is commonly used in 3P events, but is a useful tool in any situation in which a team needs to choose between several Read more…
The 7 Ways Idea Generation Form is a brainstorming tool that is used to encourage people to stretch their creativity. It is frequently used in 3P events, but is also useful in any problem-solving activity that would require an innovative solution. Get Our 7 Ways Idea Generation Form for Free Read more…
If you don’t track how things are going, getting better is harder than it should be. Can you improve if you don’t track things? Sometimes. The problem, though, is that problems are often subtle and sap resources without you even knowing it. Others are noticeable, but are…
You may have gotten to Phase 6 on the backs of strong leaders and a handful of motivated individuals. But your company will not thrive once you arrive here unless you get everyone bought in. The ‘full’ in this principle actually has two meanings.
The first is that…