Application of the Six Sigma methodology for improving processes using the DMAIC cycle: a case study at an automotive company

Abstract

Market globalization has brought deep changes to organizations, creating challenges, such as achieving cost reduction and improving levels of quality, in order to remain competitive.  For this reason, increasingly, companies are seeking management methodologies that allow them to reduce costs and improve quality and customer satisfaction.  Six Sigma is a highly quantitative management strategy whose purpose is to increase the performance and profitability of companies by improving the quality of products and processes and increasing customer satisfaction. This paper presents a case study of the application of Six Sigma in order to improve quality and reduce costs in a production line, using tools such as DMAIC, Ishikawa, and Pareto.