Calling in a Six Sigma professional usually means that an executive has noticed a problem or problems with the functioning of the company.  It could be several problematic issues that have come up, such as poor employee attendance, low productivity, or sinking profits.  All of these are causes for concern among business owners.  

Six Sigma professionals can come in and help solve quality problems for businesses, using intense analytical methods and exceptional problem-solving tactics.  Executives will meet with the Black Belt professionals in order to formulate plans of action.  These plans will be strategically designed using proven methods by the Black Belt professional and a team of Green and Yellow Belts who would begin work collecting information and analyzing data.  The results of this research should clearly show where the root of each particular problem exists and hopefully what can be done about it.  

Many problems within companies, especially poor attendance and low productivity, have to do with employee satisfaction.  This key issue is something that a Six Sigma consultant would be able to spot after closely analyzing the situation.  Both poor productivity and poor attendance relate back to how satisfied the employee is with their job.  When there are changes that must be made for improvement, these changes are suggested to the executives after the Six Sigma professional has completed their research.

Part of the Six Sigma project will be to implement resolutions, monitor the progress, and analyze results to see if the changes successfully improved the quality of the products and services as well as the functioning of the business.  One of the major changes that would be made in a situation like the one mentioned above is improving the quality of management.  Managers must be able to lead successfully, encourage employees to do a good job and to produce work that is up to the standards set forth by the company.  

One of the changes that might be suggested by a professional in this situation would be to have all managers attend extra training classes in leadership skills.  It is always good to provide extra training for employees because it makes them feel more empowered in their job.  The more they know about how to do their job, the more secure they feel with that position and the company they work for.  Sometimes, spending a little money in the form of a training investment will bring about an even greater ROI.  

A Six Sigma consultant will work with the business executives until the company has made successful improvements.  The long-term goals set by the company can be monitored on a less regular basis as time goes on.  During this time, however, the executives must continue to keep a close eye on key factors to make sure the business continues to be successful. Continued monitoring will guard against sudden and unexpected obstacles because they will be seen and avoided well ahead of time.