Table 1 Definitions for the DMAIC Process (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control)
Phase | Definition | Components |
|---|---|---|
Define | Identify a project Establish the project | A. Identify the project. B. Identify the problem. C. Identify the objective. |
Measure | Understand the current process in need of improvement | A. SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers). B. Voice of the customer. C. Symptoms analyze: (Incidence of medication error): 1- Operational definition. 2- Define boundaries). |
Analyze | Use statistical analysis to understand causes and effects in relation to the current process. | A. Formulate Theories & Cause-Effect Diagrams. B. Test Theories C. Data Collection. D. Identify Root Cause(s). |
Improve | Develop a plan that can be validated by statistical data to improve the process | A. Evaluate alternatives. B. Design remedy & Design for culture. C. Prove effectiveness & Implement. |
Control | Establish a monitoring tool or mechanisms to ensure that the process will be sustained | Design effective quality controls: A. Foolproof the improvement. B. Audit the controls. |