What does a control chart help organizations to do?

A control chart is a vital tool used in Six Sigma and other quality control methods to monitor process stability over time. It helps organizations maintain improved process performance by visually displaying data points against predetermined control limits. These limits are based on historical data and indicate the expected variation within a stable process.

When using a control chart, an organization can easily identify variations in process performance, distinguishing between common cause variations (which are inherent to the process) and special cause variations (which arise from specific, identifiable factors). This ability to recognize the nature of variations allows organizations to take appropriate actions—either to improve the process further or to ensure that any special causes are addressed before they lead to defects or process failures.

By regularly monitoring processes with control charts, organizations can sustain improved performance levels, ensuring that quality remains consistent and that any deviations are promptly addressed. This continual oversight is key to fostering a culture of quality and efficiency within an organization.