Basics of Six Sigma

The Six Sigma strategy involves the use of statistical tools within a structured, disciplined methodology for gaining the knowledge needed to produce better quality products and services faster and at at significantly lower costs by reducing variation, rework, scrap, waste, downtime, and other losses. 

Qualitran has developed a basic training program for Six Sigma team participants. This training is ideal for supervisors, process technicians and operators who need to understand the Six Sigma methodology and be able to participate in and support Six Sigma projects. Technical jargon and complex statistics are kept to a minimum while focussing on hands-on tools for process improvement and control.  This training is presented in four days of dynamic learning that features the best of twenty three years of training experience at Qualitran.   

Training Cost:

This training is can be provided on site for 10 -15 students at a fixed cost of $ 1,500 U.S. per student. This price includes all course handouts which include Qualitran's Greenbelt Training Manual, Six Sigma Memory Jogger, and The SPC BOOK.    Client to supply training facilities. 

Program Outline:

Day 1: Six Sigma Overview, Statistical Thinking & Knowledge Based Management

Day one is focused on understanding the principles of the Six Sigma strategy based on profound knowledge.  The language of Six Sigma and basic statistical concepts and metrics are introduced.  The problem of process yield and excess variation is addressed in a hands on exercise using the Catapult.

    Six Sigma Overview and language, Knowledge Based Management, Cost of Quality and Sigma Levels, The Systems Approach (SIPOC), Statistical Thinking, Principles for Transformation  - Deming, Juran, Ishikawa,  Questions Mangers need to Answer, Questions Mangers Need to Ask, Catapult Exercise 1 – doing your best,  The DMAIC methodology overview,  Basic Statistics, Yield exercise

Day 2: Types of Data, Process Characterization, Statistical Process Control   

On day two, students learn how to characterize process performance statistically.  Students learn to quantify variability using Histograms and Process Capability studies.  The distinction between common and special causes is studied along with statistical thinking.  The seven basic statistical control charts are mastered.  Students learn how to select the appropriate statistical chart for studying any process data.

    Variation, Histograms, Process Capability, Basic Statistics, Cp, Cpk, Sigma Level Calculations, Statistical Process Control theory, the Central Limit Theorem, Nelson Funnel Experiment,  Variables Control Charts (X bar R, XMR, M Xbar MR), DPMO charts, Attribute Control Charts (np,p, c, u),

Day 3: The Six Sigma DMAIC Methodology, Experiencing Breakthrough

On day three, students focus on the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control methodology which is the heart of Six Sigma Breakthrough.  They learn the details of each phase and how projects are moved through them.  They particpate in a hands-on improvement project using the Catapult.

    DEFINE step, Project Selection and Definition, Matrix Decision Analysis, Defining the Project, Stakeholder Analysis, Project Charters,  The MEASURE phase, Data Types and Collection, Graphical Techniques, Pareto Analysis, Process Mapping, SIPOC, Flowcharting, Improvement Methodology, Developing Theories, Cause and Effect Analysis,  Catapult Exercise– Experiencing Breakthrough , ANALYZE & IMPROVE phases, CONTROL Phase - Developing a Control Plan

Day 4: Introduction to Design of Experiments, Team Dynamics, Preparing for Six Sigma

On the fourth day students receive an introduction to the power of statistically designed experiments. Basic concepts and terminology are learned and students participate in a basic experiment which is analyzed using software. The four phases of team building are studied as well as conducting effective meetings, dealing with group dynamics and the management of projects.

    Introduction to Designed Experimentation, DOE theory, One Variable At A Time,  Two and Three Factor Factorial Design, Main Effects and Interaction calculations, Video " Planned Experimentation"  Catapult Exercise 4,  Teambuilding, Team Stages, How to be an Effective Team Player, Troubleshooting Team Problems, Six Sigma project management.  Roundtable Discussion.

Chief Trainer: Les Galicinski, P. Eng.

Les Galicinski is president and founder of Qualitran Professional Services Inc. He has instructed thousands of managers, engineers, supervisors and others in quality methodology and techniques and has authored several books. His background includes a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Queen's University and a career with IBM, Xerox, and GE Canada as a Product Engineer and Quality Assurance Manager. He has instructed courses in Quality Control, Management and SPC for Centennial College, Georgian College, IBM, Xerox, CGE and as a private consultant. For the past twenty years, he has been president and chief consultant at Qualitran where he has serviced clients such as Motorolla, Mack Trucks, Eveready Battery Company, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy. He has provided training to hundreds of client companies. (See Client List)

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