Lean Six Sigma For Dummies, 4th Edition

Chapter 7

Gathering Data

IN THIS CHAPTER

Identifying the What, Why, How, Where, When and Who of data collection

Getting familiar with the 5-step data collection process

Succeeding with sampling

Managing by fact is one of the key Lean Six Sigma principles. For this you need relevant, accurate and reliable data, that is produced by a measurement system that is consistent. This chapter focuses on developing a data collection process to ensure the data you collect meets these criteria.

You need to view data collection as a process that needs managing and improving just like all your other processes.

Managing by Fact

Whether you manage a process or lead an improvement project, you need accurate data to help you make the right decisions. The following quote summarizes the importance of facts:

Unless one can obtain facts and accurate data about the workplace, there can be no control or improvement. It is the task of the middle management and managers below them to ensure the accuracy of their data which enables the company to know the true facts.

Kaoru Ishikawa, What is Total Quality Control? The Japanese Way

The following sections highlight the importance of good data, and will ...