Not every data collection tool is appropriate to every project, but every project does need the uniformity and assistance that these tools can give.

Let’s take a look at some of the important tools in Six Sigma data collection and organization.

While there are some stand alone tools that we will discuss here, most are plug ins that are designed to work with the excel format.

Raw data collection tools

• Operational Definitions Sheet: Data collection across a project will be consistent when this sheet is used.
• Voice of the Customer Data Collection Tool: This tool take the results of internal databases as well as surveys, recorded information from listening posts, and interviews and organizes them into a meaningful format.
• Worksheet for Customer Segmentation: This tool will help identify and concentrate on the demands of main and sub segments, which allows the deployment team to see finer details.
• Check sheets: Used to collect small sample data in various attributes or counts, which are then used to define problem areas or to give a solid foundation to the outcomes of a project.
• Data sheets: A pretty straightforward tool used to define a problem or substantiate results based on small amounts of data.

Data Assessment tools

• Customer Requirement Translation and Analysis Tool: Customer opinion needs to be interpreted in terms that a strategic team can understand. This tool converts the language into measurable functioning requirements; the end result is a product that is immediately applicable to customer needs.
• SIPOC diagram: Both a diagram used for presentation and an analysis tool, this feature takes a look at various processes as well as identifying venders, inputs and outputs of a process. The input data is then contrasted with each other.
• Pareto Chart: In any given process, there are a small number of problems which contribute to the overall issues. Pareto charts can identify these problems and help reduce or eliminate waste so that efforts at improvement can focus on productive applications.
• Production Scheduling and Actual Scorecard: Takes a look at schedules, operations and sales planning instead of actual results.
• QFD House of Quality Chart: this tool performs multiple tasks all at once. It identifies customer requirements in regards to products or services, formulate strategies to eliminate faults and designs and implements a new plan for improved results.

Without the use of tools, the efforts at implementing Six Sigma tend to be a waste of time. The process is contingent upon the correct collection and analysis of every step in the process of a business.