Question

Problem 1: Explain how 6-Sigma differs from traditional quality control.

Problem2: Can a product achieve a quality of design but not a quality of conformance?

Answer 1

Answer 1

First, Six Sigma represents a well-thought-out packaging of quality tools and philosophies in an honest effort to provide rigor and repeatability to quality improvement efforts.

Second, Six Sigma is much more cost-reduction-oriented than traditional continuous improvement. It is this second aspect of Six Sigma that has made it so popular with CEOs. In fact, many quality practitioners are uncomfortable with the focus on results, stating that this approach violates several of Deming's points, especially in setting targets and goals for cost reduction. But proponents of Six Sigma state that this focus on profits is one of the strengths of a Six Sigma approach.

Third fundamental nuance of Six Sigma is the way it is organized. Six Sigma is a bonanza for consultants and providers of training because it is organized around creating champions, black belts, green belts, and, in some situations, yellow belts.

Fourth, Six Sigma and lean production have been combined into an approach termed Lean-Six Sigma. It is Six Sigma with an increased emphasis on reducing waste.

Answer 2

Quality of Design is the quality specified for the product.
Example: A chair made of leather is said to have a higher quality of design compared to a chair made of plastic.

Quality of Conformance is the extent to which the manufactured product complies with the designer's specifications.Example: A part not made within specified tolerance is said to have poor quality of conformance

Quality of design is the quality which the producer or supplier is intending to offer to the customer. When the producer is making the quality of design of the product, he should take into consideration the customer's requirements in order to satisfy them with fitness for use of the product. Ifthe quality of design does not reflect the customer's requirements, the product which the producer offers him would not probably satisfy the customer, even if it does sufficiently conform to the design.

Quality of conformance is the level of the quality of product actually produced and delivered through the production or service process of the organization as per the specifications or design. When the quality of a product entirely conforms to the specification (design), the quality of conformance is deemed excellent.

To conclude fitness for use (quality of design) and conformance to specification (quality of conformance) provide the fundamental basis for managing the processes to produce quality products. Good quality can be attained only when both, quality of design and quality of conformance are good.