Why Lean and Six Sigma?
First and foremost, the Army has selected Lean Six Sigma (LSS) as the process improvement methodology to support Army Business Transformation.
Six Sigma will eliminate defects, but it will not address the question of how to optimize process flow. Lean principles exclude the advanced statistical tools often required to achieve the process capabilities needed to be truly "lean."
Each approach can result in dramatic improvement, while utilizing both methods simultaneously holds the promise of being able to address all types of process problems with the most appropriate toolkit.
What is a Master Black Belt (MBB)- Master Black Belts are typically assigned to a specific area or function of a business or organization. MBBs work with the owners of the process to ensure that quality objectives and targets are set, plans are determined, progress is tracked, and education is provided.
What is a Black Belt (BB)- Black Belts are the heart and soul of the Six Sigma quality initiative. Their main purpose is to lead quality projects and work full time until they are complete. Black Belts can typically complete four to six projects per year with savings of approximately $230,000 per project. Black Belts also coach Green Belts on their projects, and while coaching may seem innocuous, it can require a significant amount of time and energy.
What is a Green Belt (GB)- Green Belts are employees trained in Six Sigma who spend a portion of their time completing projects, but maintain their regular work role and responsibilities. Depending on their workload, they can spend anywhere from 10% to 50% of their time on their project(s).
What is DMAIC - a methodology to improve processes: DEFINE the problem, MEASURE how we are doing, ANALYZE to determine the root cause of the problem, IMPROVE by creating a solution, CONTROL the process to ensure sustainability. |
