Nonstatistical Analysis Methods in Six Sigma

Overview/Description
Getting to the source of why something has gone wrong in a system or process is critical to identifying the changes necessary for resolving the problem. During the Analyze phase of a Six Sigma project, a Black Belt practitioner utilizes a variety of statistical and nonstatistical tools and methods for analyzing systems and processes to identify variation and defects, reduce costs, eliminate waste, and reduce cycle time. While many of the tools used in the Analyze phase are statistical and quantitative in nature, there are many useful nonstatistical methods. Nonstatistical methods help in the analysis by including qualitative considerations in identifying potential problems, their root causes, and their impacts. They help prioritize these causes and generate initial ideas for resolving problems when a project enters the Improve phase. This course covers the use of various nonstatistical analysis methods including failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), gap analysis, scenario planning, root cause analysis, the 5 Whys, fault tree analysis (FTA), and waste analysis. This course is aligned with the ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam and is designed to assist learners as part of their exam preparation. It builds on foundational knowledge that is taught in SkillSoft's ASQ-aligned Green Belt curriculum.

Target Audience
Candidates seeking Six Sigma Black Belt certification, quality professionals, engineers, production managers, frontline supervisors, and all individuals charged with responsibility for improving quality and processes at the organizational or departmental level, including process owners and champions

Prerequisites
Proficiency at the Green Belt level with failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), root cause analysis tools, and waste analysis in Six Sigma as scoped in the ASQ - Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge (BOK)

Expected Duration (hours)
2.0

Lesson Objectives

Nonstatistical Analysis Methods in Six Sigma

interpret a failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) worksheet to prioritize failures for improvement

recognize the distinctions and relationships between Process FMEAs and Design FMEAs

calculate the risk priority number (RPN) for a given cause of failure

identify the purpose of gap analysis in Six Sigma

sequence examples of the performance of each step in a gap analysis

recognize activities performed in the scenario planning process

identify the characteristics of scenario planning

match suggested steps in a root cause analysis to associated activities

identify errors made by a team conducting a 5 Whys analysis, in a given scenario

interpret a fault tree analysis (FTA)

classify situations as more suitable for fault tree analysis (FTA) or for failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA)