Business Enterprise Mapping Blog

Six Sigma must have a defined system in place in order to be successful.  Failure to define the enterprise at both the system and process level can make or break a six sigma initiative.  Process maps are much more comprehensive than flowcharts, and are not only an essential tool in the first phase (Define) and last phase (Control) of Six Sigma’s DMAIC methodology, but also affect the other three phases.  For example, without a defined process in place, there is lack of consistency, so measurements may be invalid.  This can then lead to flawed root cause analysis, and subsequent faulty conclusions. Process maps address the key foundational concept of Six Sigma: the concept of Y = f(X), or simply put, outputs, or product, are a function of inputs and process.  In many cases, the absence of a process map can delay or cause a project to fail.  A well-developed process map can help avert these failures.  It can serve as an effective communication tool and be a constant reminder of where an organization should focus its time and energy.