The project life cycle and six sigma
Initiation:
This phase involves defining the project's objectives, scope, and stakeholders.
It also includes identifying the resources needed for the project and
determining whether or not the project is viable.
Planning:
In this phase, a detailed project plan is created, including timelines,
budgets, and resource allocation. The project team is also assembled during
this phase.
Execution:
This phase involves carrying out the project plan and completing the work
outlined in the project schedule.
Monitoring and controlling: This phase involves tracking the project's progress and making necessary adjustments to stay on track. It also includes managing any project scope, schedule, or budget changes.
Closing:
This phase involves finalizing all project activities, documenting lessons
learned, and formally closing the project. It also includes evaluating the
project's overall success and identifying areas for improvement.
How the project life cycle is integrated into a six sigma project
The project life cycle and Six Sigma are two separate but complementary
methodologies that can be integrated to improve a project's overall
effectiveness.
Six Sigma is a data-driven approach to quality improvement focusing on
reducing defects and improving efficiency. To achieve this goal, it follows a
specific methodology, known as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve,
Control).
When integrating the project life cycle into a Six Sigma project, each phase of the project life cycle is aligned with one of the DMAIC phases.
Initiation:
This phase aligns with the Define phase of DMAIC, where the project's
objectives, scope, and stakeholders are identified.
- Planning:
This phase aligns with the Measure phase of DMAIC, where data is collected and
analyzed to understand the current process and identify areas for improvement.
-
Execution:
This phase aligns with the Analyze and Improve phases of DMAIC, where the data
is analyzed to identify root causes of problems and implement solutions to
improve the process.
-
Monitoring
and controlling: This phase aligns with the Control phase of DMAIC, where the
improvements are monitored to ensure they are sustainable and any necessary
adjustments are made.
-
Closing:
This phase aligns with the closing of DMAIC, where the project is closed, and
the results are evaluated to determine if the project objectives were met, and
if improvements were sustained.
- By integrating the project life cycle and Six Sigma, the project team can
ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and with a high
level of quality while also identifying and addressing any issues that arise
during the project.
Learn more about the project life cycle when you register for the Six Sigma Black Belt Certification Course.
References:
What Is The Project Life Cycle: The 5 Phases & Why It’s Important. https://www.aeologic.com/blog/what-is-the-project-life-cycle-the-5-phases-why-its-important/
