Track: Six Sigma

Abstract

Six Sigma (6σ) is a globally established approach for the continuous improvement of production or service processes. Using a data- and statistic-driven approach, for example, error frequencies can be minimized and important performance characteristics can be improved to increase customer satisfaction. In 6σ DMAIC-, DMADV- and DMAEC-Projects mainly flowchart-based methods for modeling and analyzing business processes are used. These classical process modeling approaches are widely used in 6σ projects and are supported by leading 6σ process tools. However, flowcharts are less suitable for process modeling and analysis, e.g. for complex, semantically rich or concurrent process structures. For these cases, this article propagates the use of the specification language BPMN (Business Management Process Notation/ ISO/IEC 19510:2013), which is a popular, standardized notation for business process management. It will be shown, which advantages the 6σ methodology can achieve by the inclusion of modern and well-established BPM modelling techniques. Using process examples, it is explained that BPMN has more powerful language functions for mapping complex process flows than flowchart based modeling. Furthermore, BPMN modelling tools will be demonstrated, which can support e.g. a simulation, visualization and automation of 6σ – process workflows.