Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams

2017-07-07 02:10:07

AKA

Teardown Method

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

Reverse brainstorming can be used as a final evaluation technique through the critical questioning of the value or applicability of previously team-generated ideas. In addition, this process attempts to uncover potential problems or other serious consequences when an idea or proposed solution is implemented.

Typical application

To minimize the risk prior to the implementation of an idea or proposed solution.

To reverse brainstorm ideas for weaknesses or serious consequences.

To criticize ideas for the purpose of reducing many to a few overall "best" ideas.

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

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

links to other tools

before

Data Collection Strategy

Surveying

Interview Technique

Observation

Checklist

after

Action and Effect Diagram (AED)

Sticking Dots

Multivoting

Weighted Voting

Nominal Group Technique (NGT)

Notes and key points

Team size should be limited to the 8–12 participants who previously generated the list of ideas.

Reverse brainstorming may not be appropriate to use for more than 10 ideas.

Since this tool promotes criticisms or the severe questioning of previously generated ideas, care must be taken not to "tear down" every good idea!

Step-by-step procedure

STEP 1 The team displays a final list of previously brainstormed ideas that passed preliminary evaluation—a reduced list at this point. See example Increase Operator Job Satisfaction.

STEP 2 One by one, all ideas are questioned or criticized for possible shortcomings, problems, weaknesses, or serious consequences if implemented.

STEP 3 After all ideas have been evaluated and the potential solutions to problem areas of each idea considered and analyzed, the team selects one (or more) "best" idea that would hold a minimum amount of risk when implemented.