DMAIC plays a key role in many Lean Six Sigma projects. It provides a framework for approaching process improvement projects and a proven pathway for achieving successful results. It’s central to the entire Six Sigma methodology.
DMAIC (an acronym for Design, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) provides a systematic way to tackle process improvement projects. This structure guides teams through the different phases of the project, ensuring each step is completed before moving on to the next.
DMAIC’s popularity stems from its ability to guide project teams and organizations through a comprehensive approach to problem-solving, resulting in data-driven, sustainable improvements that help them better meet customer needs.
What Is DMAIC?
DMAIC provides a five-phase framework for approaching a process improvement project. These phases apply to existing processes, not new ones.
Define. Define the problem in the current operation that needs to be addressed, as well as everyone it impacts. Projects that use DMAIC often start because of issues such as repeated mistakes or errors in a process or creation of products that do not adequately meet customer needs.
Measure. Collect data on current processes to establish a baseline upon which the organization can improve. This essentially is the “what is happening right now” phase, with detailed data collection on every aspect of the process or challenge under examination.
Analyze. Find the root cause of the problem by analyzing the data. In the best case scenarios, teams isolate no more than three root causes of operational challenges that need to be controlled in order to improve results.
Improve. Teams take steps to eliminate or change the root causes that have led to variability, errors, waste and unsatisfied customers. This involves creating a plan to ensure that the changes made will meet organizational goals.
Control. Place controls in the process that ensure the improvements in an operation are sustained for the long term.
Differences Between DMAIC and DMADV
Another popular Six Sigma tool is DMADV, which also provides a structured process to make operational improvements. The acronym stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify. While both offer a systematic way to design better operations, DMADV and DMAIC differ in fundamental ways.
DMADV focuses on meeting the needs of the customer when designing processes to create a new product or service. DMAIC focuses on defining problems with a current process and how to best eliminate those issues.
The two also differ on the data that is collected and analyzed. DMADV calls for gathering data on customer needs that then influence design. DMAIC measures data on the current performance of a process.
Key Features of DMAIC
A number of key features of DMAIC set it apart and have led to its continued popularity in organizations that value continuous process improvement.
Data driven. DMAIC emphasizes the importance of data and measurement in decision-making. By using data to drive decisions, organizations make more informed choices rather than relying on assumptions or “gut feelings.”
Focuses on continuous improvement. The principle of continuous improvement underlies every Lean Six Sigma tool, technique and strategy. DMAIC aligns with this philosophy, providing a roadmap to identify areas of improvement, implement changes and monitor those changes to ensure they result in sustained benefits.
Puts customers first. DMAIC methodology puts a strong emphasis on understanding customer requirements and expectations. The “Define” phase ensures that improvement efforts align with customer needs, helping organizations deliver better products and services.
Emphasizes team collaboration. DMAIC encourages cross-functional teamwork. Different team members with various skills and perspectives collaborate to address different aspects of the process. This diversity of expertise leads to better solutions.
Strives for results. DMAIC is results-oriented, with outcomes that organizational leaders can measure to determine the impact. This focus on outcomes helps organizations better track their progress and evaluate project success.
Better risk management. DMAIC helps organizations manage risks more effectively. Changes are implemented in a controlled manner, reducing the chances of unintended negative consequences.
