Statistical variations are the target of Six Sigma Projects at the most basic level. The entire point of doing a Six Sigma Process is to find these variations, determine their relationship to the process, and how they got there. Then, and only then, they can be reduced or eliminated by coming up with a solution to the underlying cause. This shows you that Six Sigma really is a PATH to the solution, rather than the actual solution. First, the current process is measured and analyzed, and then the numbers are compared to ideals or goals that the process is desired to achieve.

This difference, between the actual numbers and the goals that are set forth, is what is known as the statistical variation. In Six Sigma Projects, it is the overall end result is to reduce this variation and create a more effective process or product. With Six Sigma, that improved variation is a specific goal of 3.4 parts per million. By measuring and analyzing the processes that are in need of improvement, a better result can be made in the end because the changes and improvements were made based on actual data, rather than just someone’s hunch about how things could be better.

Six Sigma Training teaches that the process begins with metrics. Proper metrics can make all the difference in Six Sigma Projects. If you don’t measure something properly, you cannot change, affect, or manage that element like you should be able to. By gathering data properly and using it to study the improvements that need to be made, you can identify a solution to the problem, and then create a Six Sigma Process that will get you to that solution in a sufficient amount of time. Make sure that when you do this, you are scaling your projects adequately, though. You never want to take on a project that is bigger than your capabilities, because it will likely turn out badly, resulting in nothing more than wasted time and effort.

Think small with Six Sigma Projects, and focus on how you can improve the various ‘little things’ in order to make the big picture better overall. Focus your Six Sigma Projects on factual questions and statistical analysis so that you can make the most of closing the statistical variations gap every single time. Without the understanding of the relationships between variables, process and product improvement cannot be as effective as they are capable of being.