DMAIC Decoded: Green Belt Masterclass to Problem Solving

Name: DMAIC Decoded: Green Belt Masterclass to Problem Solving
Rating: 4.7 (8 reviews)

Your step-by-step guide to seamlessly navigate the complexities of a Lean Six Sigma project

Created byAmanda Zimmerman

Last updated 9/2024

English

English [Auto],

What you'll learn

Solve a complex problem
Scope and define a problem
Data Collection and Data Analysis
Facilitate Root Cause Analysis
Validate improvement and ensure benefits sustain over time

Course content

7 sections • 49 lectures • 2h 44m total length

What is DMAIC?0:35
DMAIC is a structured problem-solving tool.
This tool is from the Six Sigma methodology and typically led by a Green Belt trained facilitator. These facilitators lead a project team through solving a complex problem.
DMAIC projects seek to improve existing repeatable processes.
The acronym DMAIC stands for:
Define
Measure
Analyze
Improve
Control
How to get the most out of this course2:42
This course is a step-by-step guide to executing a successful DMAIC project.
For some following each of the lectures step-by-step will be best, others may want to only focus on the areas where support is needed.
In each section of this course it is up to the facilitator to determine what is right for them, their industry, and their organization. No two are alike, and as a result will require flexibility and problem solving that may not be predicted within the content of this course.

DMAIC Decoded vs Green Belt Certification.
This course will focus on equipping an individual in the service industry with everything they need to facilitate a DMAIC project.
In this course it is accepted that:
Green Belt certification is not necessary to facilitate a successful DMAIC project.
Only about 10-20% of service industry projects require statistical tools beyond Control Charts.
DMAIC teaches useful skills applicable across all business contexts and project types.
Green Belt courses miss core Project and Change Manage tools necessary for success.
This course does not provide Green Belt certification. However, is an excellent course to support anyone completing a DMAIC project for Green Belt certification.

At any time please feel free to reach out with any questions or comments.

Amanda Zimmerman, the course facilitator, is a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. She has coached, mentored, and facilitated projects all over the world in a wide variety of industries. Her main focus has been leading DMAIC projects in the Service Industry. Since starting her career she has demonstrated $260MM in annual benefit for her clients. She is passionate about making Lean Six Sigma tools accessible to anyone, in any industry, any where in the world. Originally from the US Amanda now lives in New Zealand.
What are Roles in a Lean Six Sigma project?2:10
Typically DMAIC projects are led by Green Belt facilitators; however, a growing trend shows people learning Process Improvement tools without becoming Green Belt certified.
As a result, it is no longer necessary to only allow Green Belts to facilitate DMAIC projects.
In this course Green Belt and Facilitator will be used interchangeably.
Roles on a DMAIC Project are as follows:
Sponsor - Understands the strategic direction of organization, should receive updates on projects monthly
Champion - Sets expectations for project facilitator and assigns resources; should receive updates on projects weekly
Green Belt (Facilitator) - Leads project, facilitates workshops, communicates to all levels in org. Should allocate 20% of time to project or approximately 1 day per week.
Project team - Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in the process, may represent different parts of the process. Will require approximately 1-3 hours of time for 12 weeks, some weeks may require more time than others.
Mentor - Guides Green Belt and provides support throughout project*
*Recommended that first time DMAIC facilitators utilize a mentor within organization or through their network. Feel free to message Amanda for more information on how to find a mentor.
DMAIC Project Examples0:33

What is Project Scoping?1:09
In some cases practitioners include Scoping activities with the Define Phase. In this course Scoping activities are separated from Define for the following reasons:
Projects should take 3-4 months to complete (from Define to Control), however this time should not include scoping activities
Facilitators should never commit fully to their first idea
Projects should be vetted before committing to them
Project Scoping activities include:
Brainstorming 10-30 ideas
Removing or reframing ideas that are not good DMAIC project candidates
Selecting ideas that have the potential for the most impact and least effort
Vetting top project ideas with Champions and/or Sponsors
Planning for Project Kick-Off
Where to find project ideas2:36
Never start with one idea, commit to it, and then try to use that as a project.
About 90% of project ideas will not result in a successful DMAIC project.
Most projects fail in the Improve phase.

Don't let this happen to you!

Invest in finding a quality project before beginning.
Focus on getting a quantity of ideas over quality. It is okay if the ideas are silly or push the envelope. Seek out others for ideas. Connect with the Champion for support and additional ideas. Get as many ideas as possible.
Generate a list of 10-30 project ideas before taking the actions outlined in the next lecture.

Here are a few great places to start finding project ideas:
Organizational strategic plans - look for gaps and variances that could result in not meeting the plan
Department strategic plans - look for gaps and variances that could result in not meeting the plan
Scorecards and Dashboards - look for measures that consistently don't meet targets
Ask SMEs - What is keeping them up at night? What are their worst complaints?
Review customer data - Any insights show reasons for calling in, dissatisfaction, etc.
DOWNTIME Wastes - Run activities to get examples of each of these wastes from the team
Talk to Champion - What are they most worried about? What do they want fixed?
Conduct Observations - Go and see the reality of what workers deal with
What is a good DMAIC Project?0:18
How to choose the best idea for a DMAIC Project0:43
How to get Management support and ensure a successful project1:52
Completing the Champion Interview on your top three ideas is the best way to choose a good project for a DMAIC approach.
Identify the Champion for each of the three project ideas.
Schedule a meeting with the Champion for 30 - 60 minutes.
In this meeting learn more about what the Champion would expect from the project, what resources they are willing to commit, and when the project could begin.
Keep in mind if the Champion is unwilling to meet with you now then they will not be there when you need them to break down barriers, approve improvements, and assign needed resources (SMEs / employees).
Recommended questions to ask the Champion are below and in the Resources section. Some choose to follow each question one at a time, others have a conversation and use the questions as a guide to ensure they didn't miss any questions. Before the interview is concluded be sure to ask these two questions:
Who will be on the project team? - Get actual names
When can the project start? - Get an actual date
These two questions can help assess whether the project can begin or not.
Each question on the interview can help the facilitator understand if the project is likely to succeed and help identify any early red flags.
Based on the information gathered, select which project has the most potential to succeed.
How to prep for the Define Phase3:47

What is the DMAIC Define Phase?1:32
Define the dmaic define phase to align the team on the problem and process using tools like the project charter, problem statement, sipoc, and voice of the customer.
DMAIC Project Template and Documentation0:23
How to lead the Define Phase meeting0:46
How to complete the Project Contract or Charter5:55
Complete a project contract or charter as a living document that evolves with team agreement. Align sponsor and team on scope, metrics, and vision of success for DMAIC projects.
How to create the perfect Problem Statement0:58
The difference between the SIPOC and an IPO0:34
How to facilitate an Input Process Output (IPO) Diagram activity50:48
Facilitate an input–process–output diagram to align teams on process scope in the define phase, using six M inputs to identify outputs and improvement opportunities in non-manufacturing settings.
How to prep for the Measure Phase1:31
Assign data tasks, identify desired measures from the IPO exercise, update the DMAIC PowerPoint, align with the project champion, and initiate data requests to prep for the measure phase.

What is the DMAIC Measure Phase? Updated1:19
What to expect in the DMAIC Measure Phase.
How to lead the Measure Phase meeting0:34
How to Develop a Data Collection Plan - Updated27:47
Instructions on how to create a plan for collecting data.
How to assess data quality - Updated3:48
An overview of the 6 Dimensions of Data Quality, used to identify gaps or quality issues within your data set.
How to analyze data for Process Performance measures0:50
How to estimate project outcomes or benefits1:55
How to prep for the Analyze Phase0:44

What is the DMAIC Improve Phase?0:36
How to lead the Improve Phase meeting1:32
Creative ways to brainstorm improvement ideas2:54
How to select improvements1:42
How to create an action plan1:37
What to expect when actioning improvements1:49
How to determine if the project ready to move into Control1:05
How to validate a change has occurred14:00
Validate changes using four methods, from anecdotal feedback to run charts and control charts. Learn to demonstrate measurable improvements with graphical and statistical analysis for service and manufacturing contexts.
How to prep for the Control Phase0:40

What is the DMAIC Control Phase?0:35
How to lead the Control Phase meeting1:13
How to build a Control Plan0:57
What Project documentation is needed?3:13
Document your project using the DMAIC PowerPoint template and an A3 one-page summary to share impact, benefits, and next steps with stakeholders.
Importance of celebrating and communicating project accomplishments5:55
Discover how to celebrate and communicate DMAIC milestones, create moments that stick, and empower teams to own sustainable changes through a wrap-up closeout.
Bonus Lecture0:11

Requirements

None required
Understanding of Lean Six Sigma at a high level recommended

Description

Are you ready to elevate your Lean Six Sigma skills to new heights? Welcome to DMAIC Decoded, an unparalleled course designed explicitly for Lean Six Sigma professionals and Project Managers seeking mastery in the art of leading Green Belt projects.

Unlock the Power of DMAIC: A Practical Approach

In this dynamic course, we delve deep into the heart of Lean Six Sigma by guiding you through the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology, providing a step-by-step roadmap to success. Unlike traditional Green Belt courses, our focus goes beyond theory, offering you practical insights, real-world templates, and actionable strategies to become a proficient DMAIC project leader.

Comprehensive Guidance for Green Belt Leaders

For Lean Six Sigma professionals and Project Managers taking the lead on Green Belt projects, this course is your secret weapon. We understand that effective project leadership requires more than statistical prowess. Hence, our comprehensive modules cover everything from facilitating productive team discussions and developing robust project charters to implementing and sustaining improvements. This is not just a course; it's your go-to resource for success.

Designed for Busy Professionals

We get it – your time is valuable. That's why this course is crafted with your schedule in mind. Our bite-sized, on-demand modules ensure you can learn at your own pace, fitting education seamlessly into your professional journey. Whether you're a seasoned Lean Six Sigma professional or a Project Manager looking to enhance your skill set, DMAIC Decoded accommodates your learning style.

Join Us on the Journey to Excellence

If you're ready to transform into a Lean Six Sigma project leader, DMAIC Decoded is your gateway. Join a community of like-minded professionals, project leaders, and change agents dedicated to driving impactful improvements. Enroll now and embark on a transformative learning experience that will redefine your approach to Lean Six Sigma project leadership.

Who this course is for:

Green Belts executing Projects
Project Managers expanding Continuous Improvement skills
Continuous Improvement practitioners

DMAIC Decoded: Green Belt Masterclass to Problem Solving

What you'll learn

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Course content

Introduction to Course4 lectures • 6min

Project Scoping6 lectures • 10min

The Define Phase8 lectures • 1hr 2min

The Measure Phase7 lectures • 37min

The Analyze Phase9 lectures • 11min

The Improve Phase9 lectures • 26min

The Control Phase6 lectures • 12min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: