Six Sigma does not concentrate only on statistical mechanisms and tools. It is a whole new philosophy to implement in an organization. As such, Six Sigma training must concentrate on this philosophy as well as on the other elements of the training.

Why? Such a question is rather easy to answer: Six Sigma cannot be implemented only partially – the whole organization must work according to the Six Sigma principles. These principles are as important to senior management staff as they are to individual employees. If the whole organization works according to these rules, than every methodology provided by Six Sigma can be successfully used to improve effectiveness.

If there is a gap in the organization, Six Sigma fails – because it is not truly implemented. What exactly is the Six Sigma methodology all about? Basically, it is about striving for perfection in every possible part of an organization. The key element of this methodology’s implementation is creativity. Without it, Six Sigma approach fails.

Six Sigma training – learning how and when to improve processes

An important part of Six Sigma is the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) approach to existing procedures. Using DMAIC, properly trained staff can check where problems are the most dangerous to the effectiveness of the process, and how they can be avoided.

In Six Sigma training, learning how to use DMAIC is one of the most important elements. Almost any procedure can be perfected – and DMAIC can be used to answer the question of where and how to do it by using statistical analysis. Developed improvements can be tested the same way using DMAIC... even before practical implementation, although the ultimate answer to the question of how a newly developed improvement will work can be answered only by checking it in practice.

Modeling using statistical tools can be used only as a good approximation, but good Six Sigma training can provide enough criticism to reject the worst ideas almost immediately. The important part of Six Sigma training is to teach the staff where further improvements will not be as effective as introducing new procedures. DMADV (Design-Measure-Analyze-Design-Verify) methodology is used in such case.

Based on similar principles, DMADV concentrates not on the analysis of existing procedures, but on the modeling of new ones, using the same statistical tools. This is more difficult than DMAIC, as it needs creativity that perhaps no Six Sigma training can provide it, however, the increase in the effectiveness can be very rewarding.

Another key element of Six Sigma training is to teach employees to work effectively and to remain in good communication with all working teams. All elements of Six Sigma, both methodologies and philosophy, should give increased effectiveness to the organization.