Ceptara

Summary

The Six Sigma Black Belt approaches problems using disciplined problem solving methodologies. One such approach called DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) focuses on reducing process variation and defects. Regardless of what approach is used, the problem Definition and Measurement phases are most critical to avoid foolish effort in Analysis, Improvement and Control resulting in much pain by fixing the wrong problem.

DMAIC Refresher

For those who are not familiar or need a refresher, here is a summary of the DMAIC process steps.

Summary

By following a structured and disciplined methodology you can achieve a deeper understanding of the root causes of any problem. The “5-Whys” Root-Cause-Analysis (RCA) methodology was invented by the founder of Toyota, used in their manufacturing process, and continues as one of the tools in the modern lean methodologies tool kit.

Summary

We all learned in elementary general science class about the Fire Triangle.  A fire requires Heat, Oxygen and Fuel.  Without sufficient Heat or Oxygen a fire cannot start or continue to burn.  Without Fuel there is nothing to burn and the fire will extinguish itself.

Your business also requires certain elements to start and to continue.

According to Nationwide Insurance, automotive crashes cost society $230 Billion each year.

The No.1 source of driver inattention is use of a wireless device.  Driving while distracted is a factor in 25 percent of police reported crashes.  Driving while using a cell phone reduces the amount of brain activity associated with driving by 37 percent. [1]

How many times have your found yourself driving and suddenly remembered that you needed to do something?  What do you do?

Throughout the novel the author uses subtle devices to help Alex reach cathartic moments to breakthrough seemingly insurmountable roadblocks.

Few books find an audience in their initial printing and even fewer get a first revision.  Dr. Eliyahu M. Goldratt’s novel “The Goal” is well into its 3rd revision and has sold over 2 million copies.

Quick View

Harley Davidson has lost its focus on quality as evidenced by our most recent bike trip and by dozens of others expressing their opinions about HD motorcycles.  That hasn't seemed to impact HD's business momentum in large part due to the success of their marketing strategy and brand image.  But will it be enough?  I know I won't ever own a Harley, at least not until they clean up their quality issues.

Enough!

I've had enough, I'm divorcing my e-mail notifications.  You get them from your computer, you get them on your phone, everytime I start my browser (and if you have your homepage set to one of those 'I can solve all of your problems just join my website' services), there it is, the notification staring at me, expecting me to do something about it.

Summary

• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) improves the reliability of your system and helps avoid unexpected costs.
• Can be performed anytime but ideally should be performed during initial design.
• FMEA is a rigorous structured approach to identify potential system failures.

Summary

• Managing complex system development projects can be difficult, especially when there are both committed and shared resources.
• A SIPOC diagram is an effective tool for identifying all elements required for a process, but does not provide a useful tool to manage the process execution.
• By breaking a SIPOC into project phases, the SIPOC can be an effective project management tool.

Why too much branding distracts from your most valuable branding tool, your products:

• Over exposing your branding graphics can hurt you.
• Create a memorable impression.
• Your products and services and the way they are delivered are your most important way to represent your company.