Choosing the Metrics to measure is one of the most difficult parts of the Six Sigma Process.  The team ‘less is more’, although counterintuitive, is best when it comes to choosing your metrics.

When choosing Six Sigma metrics to measure regarding areas you want to improve upon in your small business, the impulse might be to measure absolutely everything in an effort to pinpoint the exact causes of your issues. While measuring a lot of metrics will give you a lot of information, you’re best served by measuring only those metrics that truly are considered “good.” As a small business, you’re pressed for both time and money, and following this line of thinking will streamline your Six Sigma program as much as possible.

What, then, is considered a “good” metric? There are several different qualities to keep in mind. Be sure your metric is linked to key criteria. This means you only want to choose metrics for measurement that will provide you with relevant information about your goals. If it doesn’t somehow assist you in working towards waste elimination and cost cutting, it isn’t worth measuring.  Choosing too many might ultimately backfire and cost y our company more money; something you are trying to eliminate!

Be sure that your metric, is easily explained to others and easy to understand. You don’t want to alienate people by choosing something that is abstract or difficult to explain. A metric with units that not everyone can understand is not one you should be measuring.  Although everyone in the company should be familiar with the Six Sigma Process, that does not mean that everyone has completed their Black Belt in training.  Be sensitive to that when you go to choose.

Metrics chosen should provide information about how you’re company is doing right now. If you choose something to measure that provides information well after you need it, you will not get an accurate snapshot of your current state.

What is considered a ‘bad’ metric?  They are those do none of the above things.  If you choose a bad metric to measure, you will soon be able to identify it. The bad metrics provide no useful information and should be abandoned once discovered.

The quality of your metrics will drive the success of your Six Sigma efforts. In fact, these metrics are often referred to as the “dashboard” of your program. If you think of the dashboard in your car, this will make perfect sense. The dashboard provides you with all the pertinent information you need to get going. Paying attention to the dashboard and it’s instantly measurable “metrics” will keep your Six Sigma tank filled with gas and driving the correct speed limit!

Once you’ve settled on choosing good metrics, you can advance forward with Six Sigma implementation at your small business. Be sure you review these metrics with a team that can provide you with feedback before you go forward.