An improvement process or model is one of the fundamental elements in any Quality Management System. It is a guide, a framework, a road map.
A quality and productivity improvement process presents a series of steps to think about and work through. It provides a framework that guides from initial improvement challenge to successful completion of the project. It also helps a group work together and communicate their progress to others. Everyone knows what you are trying to accomplish at any point and where you are headed next.
A quality and productivity improvement process can used in any time frame. While it often takes months to work a difficult problem through the entire process, it’s also useful when improvement ideas must be generated quickly. Also, a quality and productivity improvement process can used by anyone. While improvement teams most often employ the process, it can be used by any group or individual, from plant site to executive officers.

Different organizations use different improvement process or models. The most basic is the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle. Six Sigma uses DMAIC- Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control.

DMAIC – A Logical Flow to Problem Solving

Six Sigma’s DMAIC problem solving approach is simple and logical. Understanding and adhering to its simplistic nature is the key to a successful Lean Six Sigma project.

Define the Problem : To develop a clear charter based on a real problem that is relevant to the customer, and that will provide significant benefit to the business.
Measure the Process: To understand and baseline the current performance of the process, through a set of relevant and robust measures.
Analyze the Process: To find the root causes of the problem, and understand/quantify their effect on process performance.
Improve the Process: To develop, select and implement the best solutions, with controlled risks.
Control the Process: To ensure the solutions are embeded, the process has robust controls, and the project has clear closure.

Plan-do-check-act

The Plan-do-check-act cycle is a four-step model for carrying out change. Just as a circle has no end, the PDCA cycle should be repeated again and again for continuous improvement. The PDCA cycle is considered a project Planning tool.

Plan: Establish objectives and processes required to deliver the desired results

Do: Carry out the objectives from the previous step

Check: During the check phase, the data and results gathered from the do phase are evaluated

Act: Also called “Adjust”, this act phase is where a process is improved