In the final step Control, the focus is on project improvement and sustainability. Some of the important activities during this stage include the design of standards and procedures, execution of statistical process control, ascertaining process capability, checking benefits, costs and revenue expansion. It also includes taking remedial action as the need be, so that the project is brought back to its nominal value. Control chart is an important tool used during this stage. It is a statistical method based on “continuous monitoring of process variation. The chart is drawn using upper and lower control limits along with a center or average value line. As long as the points plot within the control limits, the process is assumed to be in control.” (Drake, et.al, 2008, p.29) In sum, Six Sigma improves efficiency in production and service processes while also helping keep costs down. It remains a potent tool for Project Managers across various industries.
Works Cited
Drake, Dominique, J. S. Sutterfield, and Christopher Ngassam. “The Revolution of Six-sigma: an Analysis of Its Theory and Application.” Academy of Information and Management Sciences Journal 11.1 (2008): 29+.
Grant, Vince. “Six Sigma – Starting Simply.” Management Services Winter 2006: 21+.
“How to Achieve More from Your Lean Six Sigma Deployment.” Management Services Spring 2007: 36+.
Lipscomb, Brad, and Austin Lewis. “The Principles of Six Sigma: Building a Quality Claims Management Program.” Risk Management Feb. 2004: 30+.
Smith, Dick, and Jerry Blakeslee. “The New Strategic Six Sigma: The Old Standby Quality Approach, Six Sigma, Can Change Your Organization’s Culture to Drive Strategy Deployment and Business Transformation.” T&D Sept. 2002: 45+.