Fishbone Diagram As A Basis For Identifying The Defects In Six Sigma

While following DMAIC in a six sigma project the diagram comes into play in the Measure Phase. Thus initiating the collection of all root causes which are termed as X. These X's are the biggest contributors of the problem that is plaguing the organization or a single process in particular. The problem is termed as a Y. The beginning of the analysis generally runs concurrently with the Measurement Systems Analysis. To start with the process of finding and writing the inputs to the quality or any other problem from the already known to the hidden causes. Some can be quite subjective and generated from brainstorming discussions and the others will be shown by data, facts, and charts such as Pareto Diagrams.

The identification of inputs requires a well represented (professionals from all departments or processes) and engaged team, as this is the point from where the substance of the work begins to improve the process, product, or service.

Many inputs have their own causes and these become bones branching off the larger bones, and this may go on two or three levels thus giving it the shape of a Fishbone. To sum up, the root causes should be the smallest bones on the skeleton that comes out of the diagram. The appearance of the diagram is not so important as capturing all the inputs. The categories normally found in a manufacturing environment are:

1) Measurement This seeks out the root cause from the measuring devices that are employed in the six sigma process and identifies all the defects that come under its purview

2) Man This involves the identification of the root causes from people involved with a particular process. Brainstorming sessions and discussions can help a lot in this process.

3) Machine The identification of machines from where maximum defects are coming in can be good source for seeking out the causes of the defects.

4) Method The procedures followed in the organization may also be defective and need to be brought under the scanner this will surely give some causes of the defects that are cropping up.

5) Material Raw material and other material need to be checked that is used in the process as it may be a potential and in many cases the main cause of the defect that is coming up in the finished product or service.

6) Environment There are external factors that directly play a role in the quality of the product and need to be studied to know the adverse affects they are causing.


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Article Source : http://blog.brainmeasures.com/2011/07/04/the-importance-of-ishakawa-diagram-in-six-sigma.aspx