Comprehensive Six Sigma application: a case study

Abstract

Six Sigma as a framework for eliminating defects at the project level and improving performance and customer satisfaction at the corporate level has been generally recognised. This case-oriented paper reports an important Six Sigma management case study at the world’s largest cold rolling mill situated in China. The descriptions of measures taken at the company level, as well as that of the exemplary application experience of this company, would constitute a most comprehensive account of the impact brought about by Six Sigma to the company. A Black Belt project was conducted to improve the cold rolling capability to meet the thickness requirements using the Six Sigma methodology – DMAIC (define, measure, analyse, improve and control) principle. The implementation of Six Sigma methodology led to a significant financial impact on the profitability of the company. Seven key factors were also found to be instrumental to the successful Six Sigma management implementation in the company.

Keywords:

• Six Sigma
• DMAIC
• quality management
• quality improvement
• metallurgy
• China