What is Six Sigma

Sigma (σ) refers to Standard Deviation which is a measure of variation in statistics. Methodology of Six Sigma is a management philosophy that is based on the theory that parameters can be cotrolled. Six Sigma applications follow the process of identifying and defining defects, analyzing the defects using various measures, suggesting improvements and having metrics or controls in place to achieve the goals of the business. The error rate is defined as the number of error in a million. An increase in Sigma means decrease in the number of error, and lower values of Sigma correspond to higher number of error. The Six Sigma philosophy aims to bring about improvements in processes that have zero error. The Six Sigma approach is to implement methodologies that aim at reaching world standard quality which is 6 Sigma or more. The Six Sigma methodology used in clinical laboratories appears to be a quality management tool involving statistical calculations, process parameter based, and reports about the process performance.