Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams

2017-07-07 02:10:07

AKA

Plan-Do-Check-Act Strategy

Classification

Changing/Implementing (CI)

Tool description

The Shewhart PDCA cycle is a structured cyclical approach for the continuous improvement of processes, products, or services. The plan-do-check-act cycle is usually tried first on a limited basis to test and validate the benefits of change prior to a full-scale implementation effort.

Typical application

To provide a set of guidelines for a systemic application of problem solving steps, for validation of quality improvement opportunities, or for the verification of design criteria in new product development.

To test an improvement idea for possible large-scale implementation.

To continuously improve the quality of processes, products, and services.

To transition from an idea exploration stage to a trial pilot project.

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

links to other tools

before

Variance Analysis

Systems Analysis Diagram

Gap Analysis

Force Field Analysis (FFA)

Process Mapping

after

Project Planning Log

Objectives Matrix (OMAX)

Work Flow Analysis (WFA)

Barriers-and-Aids Analysis

Action Plan

Notes and key points

Cross-reference to teh Deming PDSA cycle (tool 62) for a variation of this process.

Step-by-step procedure

STEP 1 Plan (P) a product, service, problem solution, or process improvement. See example From Product Development to Customer Satisfaction.

STEP 2 Do (D) the activity planned, conduct an experiment, or pilot the change.

STEP 3 Check (C) the results or effects of change. Analyze the collected data.

STEP 4 Act (A) on lessons learned. Mark decision on large-scale production or implementation, abandonment, or activity, or the repeating of cycle steps 1–4 for continued improvement.

Example of tool application

From Product Development to Customer Satisfaction