However, this strategy does not always work in the favor of a business because innovative strategies are nothing but trial and error techniques, which may or may not work all the time. Therefore, when we talk about methodologies, there is no way that we can forget Six Sigma and the implementation of its techniques in order to improve the organization's overall performance.
Six Sigma aims at accomplishing one task only - eliminating defects and improving the performance of the company. However, the result of its implementation varies considerably on the basis of the distinct techniques adopted to bring about change in organizational processes.
This simply means that Six Sigma does not guarantee success all the time.
Origins of Six Sigma Redundancy
One of the main causes for Six Sigma redundancy is that sometimes Six Sigma analysts fail to foresee the effects of implementation, which could negatively affect the smooth functioning of the various business processes. Reducing any amount of waste is the basic principle that Six Sigma thrives on. In addition to that, Six Sigma experts usually find it tough and quite often fail to identify the root cause of the redundancies.
The reason for that may be anything, but the most common reason is that the after- effects of the implementation process are observed only after a period of three to four months, which may be too late. The common areas that Six Sigma experts look for the reasons of redundancy include project selection, analysis of variations with the help of ANOVA, assessing the dimension system and analyzing the statistics.
Apart from studying these factors, Six Sigma experts also study the various documents which were drafted in the policy making stage.
Errors and Redundancy
There are many factors that Six Sigma implementation may encounter resistance. Although the main cause of redundancy is due to errors in the calculations during the implementation process, employees' reaction to the change can solely affect the outcome of the implementation of Six Sigma. For instance, if the employees thought that the process would mean a layoff or something of that sort, it is obvious that they will not cooperate when it comes to the implementation of the strategy.
Sometimes, even department heads are cynical about the success of the strategy, since it takes a period of three months for the change to become visible.
Therefore, in order to assure the employees and the departments about the possibility of success through the implementation of the Six Sigma strategy, it is important that the task is handled by a trusted employee of the company, so that they will get well-deserved cooperation from other employees.
If risks inherent to Six Sigma implementations are not eliminated, it could easily lead to project failures or redundancies, which will then become a drain on the organization's resources and competencies. Explained below are some suggestions and techniques that business organizations can use for avoiding risks in Six Sigma implementations.
Start With Small Projects
The best way to minimize risks is to start with small projects that do not involve heavy investment or excessive use of organizational resources. Small projects will allow businesses to assess the effectiveness of the implementation project based on which they can then take decisions regarding the applicability of large-scale implementations. Small projects are beneficial also because they allow employees to gain hands-on experience and increase their technical and knowledge base. This would not have been possible in case of a large project because the stakes then would be high and it would not make sense to induct first-timers for carrying out the implementations.
Avoid Loftier Goals and Objectives
Many businesses often make the mistake of setting ambitious goals and objectives without realizing that Six Sigma is based on the concept of continuous improvements, which requires plenty of patience on part of those associated with the implementations. If goals are set without giving due consideration to ground realities, there is a huge risk that that it would lead to widespread employee frustration and dissatisfaction.
Inability to achieve the high targets can also put a question mark on the effectiveness of Six Sigma concepts and methodologies, which in turn may force the top management to call it quits. Such developments can prove disastrous and should be avoided at all costs. The best way is to start with small, achievable goals and then move on to the bigger organizational goals and objectives.
Emphasize the Use of Time-Tested Tools and Techniques
To minimize risks, businesses should stress the use of scientific and statistical tools and techniques. Personal opinions and perceptions may be necessary sometimes, but they can never replace the need for accuracy, which can only be provided by standardized Six Sigma tools and techniques.
Training is Important
Since the risks cannot be reduced until and unless the employees develop the required technical expertise, businesses should make it a point to provide the necessary training to the employees. This type of training should cover the basics of Six Sigma concepts and all the related topics such as Chi-square analysis, dispersion, regression analysis, linear and non-linear analysis, QFD Matrix (Quality Function Deployment), central tendency, cost scheduling, and data trend analysis. Other important topics that need to be covered during the training include probability theorems, factor theorems, permutations, combinations, and the most commonly used probability distributions including hyper geometric, binomial, Poisson, normal, and exponential.
It is only after all these factors have been accounted for, can a business organization hope to carry out the implementations successfully and derive the associated benefits.
Tony Jacowski has sinced written about articles on various topics from University, Six Sigma and Information Technology. Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online and certification classes for six sigma pro. Tony Jacowski's top article generates over 90500 views. to your Favourites.