What is a method for continuously improving a process?

Reducing variation in a process is a fundamental principle of continuous improvement, especially in Six Sigma. The essence of continuous improvement lies in creating a more predictable and stable process that consistently meets customer requirements. When variation is minimized, the process produces more consistent outputs, which leads to higher quality and greater efficiency.

By focusing on reducing variation, organizations are able to identify and eliminate defects, streamline workflows, and enhance overall performance. Techniques such as statistical process control, root cause analysis, and DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) within Six Sigma provide structured ways to identify sources of variation and implement solutions to mitigate them. These methods lead to improved process capabilities and customer satisfaction.

In contrast, increasing the number of workers, expanding the scope of work, or increasing the budget do not inherently lead to improvements in process effectiveness or quality. These approaches may even add complexity or strain resources without addressing the core issues affecting process performance.