AbstractQuality improvement has now become a key strategic focus in the manufacturing sector, thehealthcare sector, pharmaceuticals sector, and the service industry, where a minor variation inthe processes can result in defects, wastage, compliance problems and customerdissatisfaction. Six Sigma was a developed approach to analyzing variability and enhancingprocess performance through the application of statistical tools, disciplined and focusedproject execution, and continuous monitoring. In contrast to general quality philosophies, theprimary basis of which is cultural commitment, Six Sigma can provide a quantifiablestructure in the form of DMAIC and DMADV and is particularly appealing in settings, whereconsistency, accountability, and regulatory adherence are of the essence. This review willdiscuss the conceptual basis, history, fundamental tools, industry usage, problems, and newtrends of Six Sigma, and how it can be integrated with Lean thinking, digital transformation,and advanced analytics. Another aspect of the article concerns the change of Six Sigma as adefect-reduction strategy to a broader operational excellence framework in line with Industry4.0, sustainability, and future-ready quality systems.
Balamuralidhara V Sagar Guruswamy (Wed,) studied this question.