Six Sigma is a data-driven quality management process that aims to eliminate defects and is defined by which sequence?

• A. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control
• B. Plan, Do, Check, Act
• C. Analyze, Define, Verify, Implement
• D. Define, Build, Measure, Close

Answer: (B)

Six Sigma uses a structured improvement cycle called DMAIC. It starts by Define, outlining the problem and goals from the customer’s perspective; then Measure, collecting data to establish current performance; followed by Analyze, identifying root causes of defects; then Improve, designing and implementing solutions to address the causes; and finally Control, putting in place controls to sustain the gains. The Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle is a different general improvement method, not the Six Sigma sequence. So the sequence defined by Six Sigma is Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control.