Analysis>DMAIC
Process - The 5-step Analysis Process
DMAIC stands for: Define, Measure,
Analyse, Improve, Control
It’s a 5-step process
that is used by analysts to identify and implement
process improvements.
Mistakes can be costly
therefore it is essential that analysis is carried out
to ensure the right improvements become a project. The
first three stages of the DMAIC, Define, Measure,
Analyse, identify what improvements need to be made.
The last 2 stages, improve and control, are about
planning, implementing and monitoring the improvements.
The actions carried out at each stage, and the analysis
tools that can be used, are briefly explained below
(click to see the DMAIC chart):
Step 1 - DEFINE – What is the
problem?:
This stage is about identifying the improvement
opportunities and identifying the scope (e.g. what will
be included) of the project. The business requirements
(see
the Article business requirements) and the customer’s
requirements are established. If there are any
shortfalls between the requirements and the process the
analysis moves to the next stage
To
see the DMAIC chart listing the analysis tools used at
this stage
Click here
Step 2 - MEASURE – How are we
doing?:
The process is analysed. And the expected performance is
determined (Process maps are usually created
(see
process mapping).
To
see chart listing the analysis tools used at this stage
Click here
Step 3 - ANALYSE – What is
wrong?:
The root causes of the problem are identified. Various
analysis is used to obtain data to help work towards a
solution.
To
see the DMAIC chart listing the analysis tools used at
this stage
Click here
Step 4 - IMPROVE. Fix what is
wrong:
The improvement opportunities are refined and
prioritised.
A Business Case is usually
completed which provides details of the solution and the
benefits to be gained. If there is more than one
solution the business case will usually include details
of all solutions and the benefits that each would
provide. The pros and cons of each would usually be
included together with recommendations for the best
solution. When the solution is agreed and receives
approval to proceed, a project is initiated,
implementation is planned and the project is managed.
To
see the DMAIC chart listing the analysis tools used at
this stage
Click here
Step 5 - CONTROL. Hold the gains
celebrate:
Control is maintained throughout the project to ensure
the desired outcomes are achieved. At the end of the
project the process is measured again to ensure the
expected outcomes have been achieved and checks made to
ensure the improvements can be sustained. A further
evaluation may be carried out several weeks or months
after implementation to check that the expected
improvements are still being maintained.
The results are usually communicated and participants
are usually provided with feedback and thanked.
To
see the DMAIC chart listing the analysis tools used at
this stage
Click here
Go to Analysis Knowledge Base
See also
Go to Process Change Knowledge Base
Go to Project Management Knowledge Base
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