Liam Frady

Repeatability vs. reproducibility, which should you use? Repeatability and reproducibility are two ways that scientists and engineers measure the precision of their experiments and measuring tools. They are heavily used in chemistry and engineering and are typically reported as standard deviations in scientific write-ups. While these two measurements are both used in many […]

Common cause vs. special cause variation, aren’t they the same thing? At first glance, you’d be allowed to think so. However, as with any part of the production cycle, there is a reason for these two measurements to exist. So, let’s dive right into what makes these variations different, and how to identify […]

Takt Time vs. Cycle Time: when do you choose what to use? Regardless of how efficient your processes are, you’re going to have to measure the time eventually. Now, if you’re a new Six Sigma practitioner you likely might be wondering about Takt Time vs. Cycle Time. Both of these metrics are important […]

Process time vs. cycle time is a discussion that comes up often for newcomers to Six Sigma. Understanding these principles and how they apply to your time management is vital. Failing to grasp these concepts can affect your bottom line negatively. What is Process Time? Process time describes the interval required for a […]

What are the most common mistakes when using SIPOC? The SIPOC Diagram is one of the most useful tools in your arsenal when it comes to process analysis. It readily allows you and your team to grasp the various elements of a process before diving fully into detail on how everything fits together. […]

So what is the real difference when looking at Cpk and Sigma Level? If you’re new to Six Sigma, there is no shortage of acronyms and calculations to keep in mind as you work on your knowledge base. Both Cpk and Sigma Level are valuable tools when looking at your processes and production. […]

When you know your process yield (percentage of a process that is free of defects), you can use this yield to sigma conversion table to easily determine your process sigma level, as well as your process defects per million opportunities.

Data analysis is a fundamental process in any project. However, data can be lumped into different types, with categorical and continuous data seeming almost opposed at first glance. That said, mastering these data types and understanding when and where to use them can lead to far more precision during data analysis as a […]

Throughout any project, you’re going to gather up quite a bit of data. Now, this can be broken down into two categories: variable and attribute data. Understanding the difference and learning how it is applicable during the analysis stage can be crucial for future decision-making. So, with that in mind, let’s take a […]

If you haven’t paid attention to the news over the last two years, you’ve likely missed the buzz surrounding AI. Artificial intelligence has touched down in a big way over the last couple of years. Products and services like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Google Gemini have entered the cultural zeitgeist. Now, that’s fine and […]

Asking “Why?” may be a favorite technique of your 3-year-old child in driving you crazy, but it could teach you a valuable Six Sigma quality lesson. The 5 Whys is a technique used in the Analyze phase of the Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology. It is a great Six Sigma […]

When it comes to getting a task accomplished, having an operations process greatly increases the probability of success.

Repeatability vs. precision, how do they apply to your workflow? Six Sigma is filled with different tools, terms, and methodologies applied across the production line. Today, we’re looking at two core concepts that deal with the accuracy of your processes. What Is Repeatability? Repeatability is the typical variation that occurs when a person measures a […]

Lead time vs. cycle time, which do you choose? Improving your processes is a nuanced and complicated thing. Understanding the difference between the various measurements of time can only benefit your workflow. So, let’s dive into what this means and how it applies to your production. What is Lead Time? Lead time is the duration […]

Out-of-control Action Plans (OCAPS) are a piece of the Lean Six Sigma methodology that is often overlooked. Though they have been phased out in some organizations, it is important to understand their purpose and how they can help a company improve its processes.

Cycle time vs. throughput, do you know the difference? Typically, when we look at the steps of our workflow, you’ll want metrics to gauge effectiveness and efficiency. Depending on the scenario, you’ll want to use one of these two metrics while looking at the work time needed to complete a deliverable. What is Cycle Time? […]

Do you know the difference between tangible vs. intangible benefits? Measuring the results of your company’s output can be of vital importance. Understanding how these two measurements line up and differ from one another can help refine productivity. Additionally, failing to pay attention to these measurements could have serious ramifications. What Are Tangible Benefits? Tangible […]

Use this table to go between and convert Sigma to DPMO to Yield to Cpk.

Null hypothesis vs. hypothesis, which is the right choice? When you get into the different methods of analyzing data, there is no shortage of tools at your disposal. Understanding the difference between a null hypothesis and a hypothesis can make or break your testing and analysis stages. Let’s dive into both of these tools and […]

Value stream map vs. process map, which is better for you? As with many tools and methods in Six Sigma, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to mapping things out. Both of these tools have specific functions with some overlap. If you’re new to Six Sigma, then you’re in luck. Today, we’re going in-depth into how […]