The Six Sigma methodology DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) is used to improve an existing process.
Design for Six Sigma is used to design a new product or service.
The methodology used is DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design and Verify).
Define the goals and customer (internal & external) requirements. What is Critical to Quality.
Measure customer needs and specifications this should include benchmarking competitors.
Analyze the options.
Design the process.
Verify the design performance and ability to meet the customer requirements.
DMAIC was discussed in earlier blogs:
http://www.housingzone.com/blog/part-1-basics-process-improvement
About the Author
Denis Leonard
Denis Leonard has a degree in construction engineering, and an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. in quality management. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Quality and has been an Examiner for the Baldrige National Quality Award Board of Examiners, a Judge on the International Team Excellence Competition, and a Lead Judge on the National Housing Quality Award. He has experience as a quality manager in the home building industry as well as construction engineer, site manager, and in training, auditing, and consulting with expertise in strategic and operational quality improvement initiatives. His work has achieved national quality, environmental, and safety management awards for clients.