Definition
Two layers of meaning: 1 level of process capability - the long-term control process is shifted to a deficit probability of not more than 3.4 ppm within 1.5 ; 2 Danaher's six Sigma system - PF/CE/CNX/SOP seven step road map plus black belt/maes of master black belt certification ladder.
In detail
Six Sigma has two meanings: one is the process capability level, meaning that when the process is controlled within ±1.5σ over the long term, the defect probability does not exceed 3.4 parts per million; the other is Danaher's Six Sigma system, including the PF/CE/CNX/SOP seven-step roadmap and the Black Belt/Master Black Belt certification ladder. It addresses how to reduce variation and improve quality through data-driven methods. Unlike lean, Six Sigma emphasizes statistical analysis and project orientation. It typically delivers improvement results, control plans, capability analyses, and certified talent along the PF→CE→CNX/SOP mainline; DMAIC is an industry-wide convention, not the mainline of Danaher's own course package.
Example in practice
A chemical company's product purity is unstable, and customer complaints increase. The company launches a Six Sigma project; a Black Belt leads the team along the PF (process flow) → CE (cause-and-effect) → CNX/SOP roadmap: mapping the process flow, analyzing cause and effect, classifying variables into constants and noise, then using DOE and SPC to find the optimal parameter combination and turning it into standard work. Ultimately, product purity significantly improves, variation decreases, and a continuous monitoring mechanism is established.