Page 19 - Six Sigma Demystified

xiv InTroDuCTIon

Six Sigma Demystified is written to address these needs. This Second Edition
has taken the input of the many thousands of readers of the First Edition to
further refine specific topics, as well as to provide further detail on using
Minitab and Excel to solve common problems found in both service and indus-
trial settings, as well as certification exams.

How to Use This Book

The book’s presentation is based on the implementation strategy for Six Sigma.
Part 1 addresses the management responsibilities for developing a coherent
infrastructure to support successful Six Sigma projects. Part 2 addresses the
details of deploying Six Sigma projects using the Six Sigma define, measure,
analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) problem- solving methodology. Each
chapter in Parts 1 and 2 concludes with exercises to test the subject matter
expertise of the reader. Section exams are also provided for Parts 1 and 2, in
addition to a final exam addressing the entire scope of the text. Solutions to the
questions are provided at the end of the book.
Part 3 of the book serves as a reference guide to detail the statistical, lean,
and problem- solving tools used most often in the DMAIC project deployment.
It includes a variety of tools useful to Six Sigma teams, each presented within
the context of an objective for a particular stage of DMAIC. Since many tools
have applications within multiple stages of DMAIC, each tool description in-
cludes a “When to Use” section relating to the DMAIC methodology and its
objectives. Detailed interpretation of each tool is also provided, with reference
to other tools that should be used in conjunction with that tool for full effec-
tiveness. Calculations and assumptions are provided as needed, as are detailed

examples of their use in popular software such as MS Excel, Minitab, and Green
Belt XL. To attract interest from the widest audience, many examples are pro-
vided for service processes.
This book may be used for training groups of black belts and green belts or for
self- study to master the tools and methodology of Six Sigma. Students may
download example files and free (limited-time use) copies of the Green Belt XL
software at www.qualityamerica.com\downloads.
I hope that you will find this book useful in your Six Sigma journey.