Mistakes to Avoid When Implementing Six Sigma

For a Six Sigma project to be deemed successful, it needs to be implemented successfully. This is not always easy, as many organizations run into avoidable pitfalls that end up wasting valuable time and resources. 

Here are some mistakes to avoid when implementing Six Sigma:

Selecting the Wrong Project

When the wrong project is selected, Belts end up dealing with projects that are beyond their control. This leads to the project being delayed or abandoned altogether, causing stakeholders to be disillusioned about Six Sigma’s effectiveness. 

Solution: Teams should take a data-driven approach to ensure that the selected projects are focused on achieving both business goals and customer satisfaction.

Using Faulty Implementation Strategies

A faulty implementation strategy disconnects the organization’s business goals from the expected results. In turn, this confuses stakeholders, as they will fail to see the project’s impact on the organization’s goals, leading to delays. 

Solution: It is important to ensure that the implementation strategy encompasses all aspects of the organization’s business goals to avoid misalignment with implementation results.

Being Too Focused on Formal Training and Certification

When project teams become obsessed with obtaining their Six Sigma training and certification, project support falls on the wayside. In the end, Belts choose projects that they can complete with minimal effort to get their certification. 

Solution: Belts should put organizational goals at the forefront and choose projects they know will produce tangible business results for stakeholders.

Lack of Collaboration

For Six Sigma implementation to be successful, every member of the organization needs to be involved. 

Solution: Leadership needs to link the implementation of Six Sigma to both individual and business goals.

Leadership Being Indifferent

The involvement of leadership at all levels is vital in not only implementing Six Sigma but making sure results stick. 

Solution: Leadership needs to set an example and communicate with all employees that Six Sigma is going to become a major part of organizational culture.