Achieving Six Sigma rating in a system simulation model

Abstract

This paper describes an approach for achieving Six Sigma rating in Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) criteria measured through a system Discrete Event Simulation (DES) model. Lean manufacturing techniques are utilised at the Improve (I) phase of DMAIC to reduce manufacturing lead time. DES provides a flexible platform for applying DMAIC analyses as well as lean manufacturing techniques. An example of a simple manufacturing process is used to clarify the application of the proposed approach. Results showed that while achieving Six Sigma rating may not be always practically attainable at system level, significant relative improvement can still be achieved.