Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams

2017-07-07 02:10:07

AKA

Circle Chart, Distribution Ratio, Area Graph

Classification

Analyzing/Trending (AT)

Tool description

A pie chart presents data very efficiently and is useful for general comparison of parts or ratios. The circular graph illustrates the relationship of the various parts, each part representing a percentage of the whole.

Typical application

To display the relative contributions of different subcategories of data.

To identify ratios or proportions.

To establish priorities for action.

To focus on problems or causes.

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

links to other tools

before

Frequency Distribution (FD)

Checksheet

Observation

Surveying

Focus Group

after

Two-directional Bar Chart

Demographic Analysis

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Pareto Chart

Presentation

Notes and key points

The parts of a pie chart must total 100 percent. Group small percentage items and label them "other." Draw no more than 10 parts, using alternate fill patterns or colors.

Step-by-step procedure

STEP 1 Collect the data and verify accuracy. See example Cost of Quality Budget.

STEP 2 Identify data categories and determine percentage for each.

STEP 3 Draw circle for the pie chart; include a small circle in the center to represent the whole.

STEP 4 Label each part (category) and indicate its percentage.

STEP 5 Use different shading, fill patterns, or color for parts. Date the pie chart.