Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams

2017-07-07 02:10:07

AKA

N/A

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

The matrix data anlaysis tool is essentially a display of data characteristics used by integrated product development teams (IPDT) to perform market research and describe products and services. Matrix data is arranged for easy visualization and comparisons. Relationships between data variables shown on both axes are identified using symbols for importance or numerical values for evaluations.

Typical application

To determine the representative characteristics of customer or products.

To perform market research.

To verify the strength of relationships among variables.

Problem-solving phase

	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
→	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
→	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

1	Research/statistics
2	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
	Project management
	Manufacturing
3	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
4	Change management

links to other tools

before

Demographic Analysis

House of Quality

Benchmarking

Surveying

Starbursting

after

Risk Space Analysis

Opportunity Analysis

Fresh Eye

Window Analysis

Idea Grid

Notes and key points

Recommendation: Use symbols that stand out and are easily differentiated if the location of data on the matrix is not identified by name. See example ▪, •, ▴, +, etc. All circled symbols reflect this organization's data or quadrant location.

Step-by-step procedure

STEP 1 The team first determines what characteristics need to be analyzed. This process may be influenced by some product or service concern, loss of market share, or unfavorable benchmarking results. See example Comparison of Nontraditional Degree Programs.

STEP 2 A research and data collection process is performed to acquire the data to be charted on the matrix data analysis chart. Data may come from surveys, interviews, focus groups, historical records, benchmarks, or published sources. Ensure that appropriate scales are used to position or calculate data.

STEP 3 Next, team consensus is required to plot the comparison data on the chart. Care must be taken to ensure the unbiased positioning of the organization's data, as shown in this example.

STEP 4 The completed chart is discussed, all relationships are reviewed, and a summary statement is prepared. Finally, the chart is dated and presented to the process owners.