DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control)

DMAIC is the five-phase problem-solving roadmap used in Six Sigma to improve existing processes: define the problem, measure current performance, analyse root causes, improve the process and control it to sustain the gains.

In Define, the team sets out the problem, goal, scope and customer requirements, often in a project charter with a SIPOC diagram of suppliers, inputs, process, outputs and customers. Measure establishes a baseline, validates the measurement system and collects data on the key output and potential inputs. Analyse identifies and verifies root causes using tools such as cause-and-effect diagrams, hypothesis tests and regression. Improve develops, tests and implements solutions, sometimes using design of experiments. Control sustains the result through control plans, standard work, statistical process control and handover to the process owner.

DMAIC is the core method of Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma programmes. It suits problems whose causes are unknown and where data can be collected, such as excessive scrap, variable dimensions, long lead times or high warranty claims. Phase-gate reviews at the end of each phase help leaders confirm progress and decide whether to continue.

DMAIC is intended for existing processes; new product or process designs often use design for Six Sigma roadmaps such as DMADV. Teams sometimes jump to solutions before the analysis is complete, which the DMAIC structure is meant to prevent. ISO 13053-1 describes the DMAIC methodology. Simpler problems may be solved faster with PDCA or 8D.

Key points

Five phases: define, measure, analyse, improve and control.
The core project roadmap of Six Sigma for existing processes.
Validates the measurement system before analysing data.
The control phase sustains gains with control plans and SPC.

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Related terms

Terms that refer to DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control)

Defects per Million Opportunities (DPMO)Industry 4.0 & Manufacturing Operations