She also introduced DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control) as a Six Sigma key method. It represents the five phases that make up the process: define the problem, improvement activity, opportunity for improvement, the project goals, and customer requirements.
DMAIC, to Ms Hien, is an effective stress-reduce formula as it has helped her improve her business and tackle substantive issues either at work or in her personal life.
Ms Hien explained: “First of all, you define the issue and measure its importance. You collect as much data as possible by using 5-Whys, known as one of the most used tools in Six Sigma”.
To better understand the issue, Ms Hien shared that it is vital to collect data by asking as many questions as needed. “Some issues are so straightforward that asking one or two Whys is enough to realise the root cause. However, there are problems that require a chain of questions to dig deeper and provide a fuller picture.”
Another useful tool in Six Sigma concept is CTQ (critical to quality). “You need to know what is critical to your clients, then that will guide you on what you need to focus on to improve.
“Having specific, realistic goals helps you keep your eyes on the prize.”
To applications in work and life
Six Sigma is not a brand-new concept, as Ms Nguyen Thi Minh Giang, Co-Founder & Partner of Leaders and Culture at Newing company, shared: “I had no clue that I was applying Six Sigma until I realised it all starts from ‘mindset’ and ‘new behaviours’ to improve myself and my life every day”.
According to the prominent human resources consultant, the biggest challenges faced by business executives are often linked with people and coordination.
“For instance, initially, the company was established when founders had extraordinary ideas and talented team members. Staff seemed coordinative, supportive, and friendly.