CPIM Practice Exam

Which methodology is used to implement improvements in Six Sigma?

1. PDCA

2. DMAIC

3. Lean

4. TQC

The correct answer is: DMAIC

The methodology utilized to implement improvements in Six Sigma is DMAIC, which stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. This structured, data-driven approach is specifically designed to improve existing processes that do not meet specifications or have performance issues. In the Define phase, the problem is articulated, and project goals are set. The Measure phase focuses on collecting data to understand current performance levels and baseline metrics. In the Analyze phase, data is examined to identify root causes of defects or inefficiencies. The Improve phase involves developing and implementing solutions to address the identified issues. Finally, the Control phase ensures that improvements are sustained over time by continuously monitoring the process. This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the process and a systematic way to achieve significant, sustainable improvements, which aligns precisely with the fundamental objectives of Six Sigma. Other methodologies mentioned, such as PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act), Lean, and TQC (Total Quality Control), play roles in quality management and process improvement but do not specifically represent the Six Sigma framework for process enhancements like DMAIC does.