It has often been questioned if creativity can fit into the structured mold of the Six Sigma business strategy. While Six Sigma training is very structured, there is no reason not to use creativity within the model and development thereof. In fact, a Six Sigma Black Belt can fit creativity into various aspects of the Six Sigma business strategy development and outlook.

Six Sigma Black Belts Can Include Creativity in Strategy Design

During the design of the Six Sigma business strategy, a Six Sigma Black Belt can incorporate creativity in various design aspects. By examining the needs of the business, as well as the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) model, a Black Belt will be able to determine where creativity is allowed. Keeping creativity in mind within the design of the DMAIC business strategy is one way to obtain the goals with a more customized approach.

Creativity and Six Sigma Structure Can Co-Exist

In addition to the design, a Six Sigma Black Belt may also choose to insert creativity into the development of the plan. The DMAIC model itself is actually quite open to creativity, even though it is structured. For some, the act of thinking up new ways to define business goals and measure the success of the current strategy could be considered creative. Further analysis to determine what is in the way of the business goal also may be creative, even though statistical tools often are used.

Within the improvement part of the DMAIC model lies an area that is very wide open to creativity and new ideas. Being creative can play a big role in coming up with effective improvements on projects and project management. Innovation and fresh ideas can be the underlying reason for the success of goals within a company. Creativity also is required in determining how to control the ideas that ultimately lead to the goals within a business strategy.

Creative Means of Communication and Customer Relation

Communication between all Six Sigma training levels is key in successful Six Sigma implementation. It also is key in customer relations, the main focal point of most businesses. By using creativity within the customer relations aspect of the Six Sigma business structure, a Six Sigma Black Belt may find added benefits in effectiveness, teamwork, and cooperation. These ideas can be incorporated during the design and development of the DMAIC model.

This can be done without interrupting the main focus of a Six Sigma business strategy. Taking example from above wherein creativity is used in the development of the DMAIC model, one can see where this could lead to success in customer relations. The main goal of most businesses is to make the customer happy. Creative and innovative ideas can help attain, as well as maintain that ultimate goal.