-Recognize functional problems that link to operational issues. Break down errors in an effort to recognize the interrelated problems that cause them. Note the hierarchical nature of these process problems — in other words, how process problems connect to operational issues, which are, in turn, tied to support systems that link to business issues such as customer satisfaction and profitability.
-Define processes that contribute to the functional problems. Determine whether the functional problems you have are related to products, services or transactions. Create process maps, breaking down necessary processes into individual steps, events or activities, to effectively search for solutions to problems.
-Measure the capability of each process that offers operational leverage. Express how well each process is performing, in the form of a measurement, noting the CTQ characteristics of each element, and its impact on the business.
-Analyze the data to assess prevalent patterns and trends. Determine the relationships between the variable factors in the process and determine the direction of improvements.
- Improve the key product/service characteristics created by the key processes. The Black Belt must focus on CTQ characteristics inherent in a product or service and then find ways to improve the capability of those characteristics. This is done by screening for variables that have the greatest process impact and establishing operating specifications for each.
-Control the process variables that exert undue influence. Process improvement is sustained by implementing measures that control the key variables. Note the difference between controlling the variables and merely monitoring them — you must address these variables before they contribute to problems, not after the fact.
-Standardize the methods and processes that produce best-in-class performance. Promote and standardize the Six Sigma methods that produced optimum results, as well as the optimized processes that result in exceptional performance.
-Integrate standard methods and processes into the design cycle. Don’t create new processes for every new design or evolution in an existing design; make changes to the design itself to maximize efficiency.
++The Breakthrough Strategy is designed to ensure that companies apply its precepts in a disciplined, methodical way; doing so at all levels ensures “leveraged” success.