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What are the 7 essential Quality Control Tools to Enhance Efficiency in Six Sigma Projects?

Writer: Keivan HeidariKeivan Heidari

The idea of tools in Lean Six Sigma is similar to a toolbox. Think of a toolbox: it holds different tools, each for a particular job. For example, a screwdriver isn't meant to be used as a hammer. It's crucial to use the right tool for each task. So, how can you make sure the correct tool is used when enhancing your projects and processes? Seven quality control tools are available to help you start your project smoothly.


Having grasped this concept, what tools are part of the 7 QC toolbox? Let's explore these tools.

  1. Check Sheet

    A check sheet is an indispensable tool, as it allows for the straightforward collection of data that can be analyzed later in the process.

    Check sheet
    Source: https://asq.org/quality-resources/check-sheet
  2. Fishbone Diagram

    Fishbone diagrams are employed to investigate and thoroughly identify the root cause of a problem. As suggested by its name, the diagram resembles the skeleton of a fish, with each main bone symbolizing a distinct category of potential root causes. Increasingly smaller bones depict the process of further analysis.

    Fishbone diagram example
    Source: https://asq.org/quality-resources/fishbone
  3. Histogram

    This bar graph represents the frequency of a dataset, which is typically continuous. The histogram effectively illustrates the data's central tendency, range, and distribution, providing a valuable overview. However, it does not display the data's sequence or order.

    Histogram example
    Source: https://asq.org/quality-resources/histogram
  4. Pareto Chart

    This chart is founded on the 80/20 principle, which posits that 80% of outcomes are driven by 20% of causes. For instance, 80% of sales are typically generated by 20% of customers. Dr. Joseph Juran, who created this chart, initially described this principle as the "vital few and trivial many," later modifying it to "vital few and useful many." The Pareto chart organizes causes in descending order of frequency or magnitude, serving as a tool to prioritize areas for process improvement.

    Pareto chart example
    Source: https://asq.org/quality-resources/pareto
  5. Control Chart

    A control chart is a statistical tool for analyzing process data over time. It enables differentiation between special cause and common cause variation.

    Control Chart
    Source: https://asq.org/quality-resources/control-chart
  6. Scatter Diagram

    These are also called scatter plots and display a graphical correlation between paired data sets on an X and Y axis. Scatter diagrams are a graphical representation commonly employed in regression analysis.

    Scatter plot
    Source: support.minitab.com/en-us/minitab/help-and-how-to/graphs/scatterplot/create-the-graph
  7. Stratification

    This is a graph that shows data stratified when it comes from different sources. It is useful to view the data by certain strata, such as shift, gender, geographic location, machines, or suppliers.


Understanding these seven tools is crucial, as is knowing when to utilize each. Additionally, determining which tool is appropriate for your specific situation is essential.

Becoming well-acquainted with these common tools will enable you to choose the appropriate one to address your problem or query more efficiently. The Fishbone diagram is employed to identify the root causes of an issue. A control chart is utilized to differentiate between common and special cause variations. A scatter diagram examines the correlation or relationship between an X and Y variable. 


Consider the following tips when evaluating the use of these tools:

  • Have a Clear Idea of What Question You’re Trying to Answer

  • Use Them as Your Primary Presentation

  • Make Sure They’re Self-explanatory


 
 
 

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