The two most widely used Six Sigma methodologies are DMAIC and DMADV. Both methods are designed so a business process will be more efficient and effective. While both of these methodologies share some important characteristics, they are not interchangeable and were developed for use in differing business processes. Before comparing these two approaches in more detail, let’s review what the acronyms stand for.
How are DMAIC and DMADV Similar?
DMAIC and DMADV do have a number of similarities that are worth noting. They both use statistical tools and facts in order find solutions to common quality-related problems and focus on reaching the business and financial goals of an organization. DMAIC and DMADV are implemented by Green Belts, Black Belts and Master Black Belts and are used to reduce defects to fewer than 3.4 per million available opportunities, or Six Sigma. Their solutions are data intensive and based only on hard facts.
How are DMAIC and DMADV Different?
Despite the shared first three letters of their names, there are some notable differences between them. The main difference exists in the way the final two steps of the process are handled. With DMADV, the Design and Verify steps deal with redesigning a process to match customer needs, as opposed to the Improve and Control steps that focus on determining ways to readjust and control the process. DMAIC typically defines a business process and how applicable it is; DMADV defines the needs of the customer as they relate to a service or product.
With regards to measurement, DMAIC measures current performance of a process while DMADV measures customer specifications and needs. Control systems are established with DMAIC in order to keep check on the business’ future performance, while with DMADV, a suggested business model must undergo simulation tests to verify efficacy.
DMAIC concentrates on making improvements to a business process in order to reduce or eliminate defects; DMADV develops an appropriate business model destined to meet the customers’ requirements.
When Should DMAIC and DMADV Be Used?
In general, DMADV is associated with new services and product designs; it may not always work with existing products and processes. When there is no existing product, DMADV can be implemented to design the product or process. Another way of looking at it would be to use DMADV when a process improvement doesn’t meet expectations or simply fails.
DMAIC is used on a product or process that already exists but is no longer meeting customer needs and/or specifications. Companies without previous Six Sigma experience may want to enlist help from professionals such as Six Sigma Black Belts and Master Black Belts, professionals who can help make the best choice between DMAIC and DMADV.
