Resources

When most people think of process mapping in Lean Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping (VSM)  often takes center stage—and for good reason. It’s one of the most powerful tools for visualizing the end-to-end flow of materials and information. But VSM is not the only process mapping method available. In fact, for specific project phases or types of problems, other tools like SIPOC , Swimlane Diagrams , and Spaghetti Diagrams  can provide sharper, more targeted insights. Let’s explor

In Lean Six Sigma, solving problems effectively means going beyond the symptoms and uncovering the true source of variation or waste. This is where Root Cause Analysis (RCA)  plays a critical role. According to ASQ, a root cause  is “a factor that caused a nonconformance and should be permanently eliminated through process improvement” (ASQ, n.d.). RCA, therefore, is not just about fixing what is broken—it’s about preventing recurrence by addressing the core issue  that trigg

In Lean Six Sigma and continuous improvement work, understanding a process is the first step toward improving it. Processes often seem straightforward at a glance, but when mapped and analyzed, hidden inefficiencies, errors, and redundancies come to light. That’s where process analysis tools  come in. These simple yet powerful techniques help teams visualize how work gets done, uncover problem areas, and design better ways of working. Let’s look at four of the most widely use

In Lean Six Sigma, solving problems and driving improvements depends on using the right tools. Among the most enduring and practical are the Seven Basic Quality Tools —a set of techniques first popularized by Kaoru Ishikawa in his classic Guide to Quality Control . These tools are considered “basic” not because they are simplistic, but because anyone—from frontline employees to executives—can apply them to analyze processes, identify root causes, and make data-driven decision

In Lean Six Sigma and quality management, continuous improvement is not a one-time event—it’s a mindset and a repeatable process. One of the most enduring and effective tools to support this mindset is the PDCA cycle . Simple yet powerful, PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) helps organizations test ideas, implement changes, and sustain improvements in a structured way. What Is PDCA? PDCA, also known as the Deming Cycle  or Shewhart Cycle , is a four-step iterative process designed to f

In today’s fast-changing world, one skill consistently separates high performers from the rest: problem solving . Whether you’re a business leader facing operational bottlenecks, a student tackling a tricky assignment, or a professional navigating workplace challenges, your ability to analyze, adapt, and resolve problems can define your success. What Is Problem Solving? At its core, problem solving is the process of identifying an issue, analyzing its root cause, and developi