The document discusses the Define phase of Lean Six Sigma, emphasizing the problem-solving strategy represented by the equation y=f(x), which illustrates the relationship between process inputs (x) and outputs (y). It outlines steps to understand project goals, measure metrics, identify significant factors, and implement improvements. Key topics include the basics of Six Sigma, the importance of recognizing critical variables, and the history of Lean practices.

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Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
1.1.4 Problem Solving Strategy
1.1 The Basics of Six Sigma & The Lean Enterprise
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1 The Define Phase

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QA Alliance
Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
The Problem Solving StrategyY = f(x)
▪ Y= f(X) or Y is a function of X illustrates that:
▪ Process outcomes (Y) are a result of the drivers (Xs) within the process
▪ DMAIC helps identify which process inputs (Xs) are significantly influencing process output measures (Y)
Alex
the
Carpenter
• time to design an
item
• time to build an
item
• strength of wood,
• water resistance
X1
X2
X3
Drivers
YProcess
y1
y2
y3
• Time to deliver
• availability of ready
to deliver options
• wear and tear free
furniture
competitive price
Outcomes
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3. QA Alliance
QA Alliance
Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
The Problem Solving StrategyY = f(x)
Which process variables (causes) have critical impact on the output (effect)?
Y= f(X)
On-time delivery= f(Cycle time, machine speed)
Defective transaction= f(Incorrect information)
Try to become more aware of the Outputs you want to achieve (your Ys) and what factors
will affect how you get there (Xs)
X
• Causes
• Independent
Y
• Effect
• Dependent
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4. QA Alliance
QA Alliance
Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
The Problem Solving StrategyY = f(x)
Define Measure Analyze Improve Control
• Understand project Y
and how to measure
it, converting
problem into
measurable terms
• VOC, SIPOC, CTQ
• Prioritize potential X,
identify Error
• Measure E, X & Y
• Identify significant
relationship
between Y and
various X
• Critical few x‘s that
contribute most to
the problem of the
process Y are found
out
• Implement solutions
to improve Y and
address important
x‘s
• Monitor critical Xs
and the Y over time
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QA Alliance
Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
ActivityTime!
▪ Think of that cup of coffee: The process output
▪ Now establish Y=f(X) for this
▪ Find Xs for your Y, a nice cup of coffee
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Discuss this activity with other participants and mentor.
In the coffee making process, list down dependent and independent variables.

6. QA Alliance
QA Alliance
Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
1.1 The Basics of Six Sigma & The Lean Enterprise
In this lesson, we covered…
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➢ Meanings of Six Sigma & Lean
➢ General History of Six Sigma & Continuous Improvement
➢ Deliverables of a Lean Six Sigma Project
➢ The Problem Solving Strategy Y = f(x)
➢ Voice of the Customer, Business and Employee
➢ Six Sigma Roles & Responsibilities
➢ The History of Lean
➢ Lean & Six Sigma

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Progressive professional developmentLean Six Sigma- Define Phase
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Let’s learn about the strategy that is used for problem solving
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