The Six Sigma Methodology is defined as a set of techniques that are employed by businesses to achieve and retain low-failure rates in any procedure. The term is derived from mathematical use of statistics; specifically standard deviation. In theoretical practice, a 'six sigma' would be roughly three failures for every million attempts.

The adoption of this form of methodologies has been implemented by many areas of business processes. Many of these businesses include areas like service industries, transactional businesses, and customer service. The word failure is referred to, within each product line and industry, as a defect in a product that clients consider significant. The Six Sigma methodologies are an attempt to reduce the defects to below 3.4 per million.

There are two primary methodologies within the 'six sigma'; the DMAIC process and the DMADV process. The first process is used to leverage existing framework that do not meet the specifications of the regime and to bring them into the program's threshold. The second method is employed in the development of new processes or products and ensures that they meet the population at the program's levels of quality.

There are 4 key Six Sigma certifications; master black belts, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts. For either rank, you would have to train extensively in the methodologies and techniques and pass a test.  For some of the certifications, a successful demonstration of a Six Sigma Project is also required. Although it varies, a Six Sigma Black Belt is able to save businesses up to $200,000.00 to $300,000.00 dollars per project and is able to oversee up to 6 projects per year, on average.

For instance, General Electric is known to have employed certified professionals. It is projected that General Electric has saved over 10 billion dollars since they implemented the program. Companies like these remain dedicated to reducing variation on every transaction since the program's implementation. Their dedication has yielded positive results like enhanced customer relations, improved public image, and increased profits.

There are a lot of naysayers when it comes to this process. Many people claim that the process is too expensive of an investment. With the state of the economy, it is not surprising that many people feel this way. The process is quite useful and should be looked at as a business investment. If a business has the money to invest in the program, the business is bound to see significant results within 4-6 months.  Sometimes in business, you have to spend in order to save or sell.

Over time, as a business's Return on Investment grows, it becomes obvious that the Six Sigma Process was a wise investment. While there are people that say the investment is not practical, it is a lifesaver for businesses that face peril. In the end, a business's clients and processes would be enhanced. While it may be expensive, it is not something that should be ruled out.

Like most things in business, to make money, you have to spend money. When it comes to improving your business processes, spending the extra money on the plan will enable you to see better results in the end. Although it may not be practical to use for every business, it is a decision made by upper-management. Now that, you know about the Six Sigma basics, weigh your options to find out if the process is practical for you and your business.