[01] Sachin Mahendru, Department of Mechanical Engineering, MM University, Ambala, India. [02] Bikramjit Singh, Department of Mechanical Engineering, MM University, Ambala, India.

It is a conceptual paper to demonstrate the importance of application of Six Sigma DMAIC methodlogy to a PVC pipe manufacturing process and to realize the role played by measure phase for successful completion of Six Sigma. Measure phase measures the potential of the process. It is important to study the existing process in order to formulate the improvement strategies. It entails a method to execute measure phase in a comprehensive manner so that this phase reflects the actual process. It acts as road map for the researchers for executing measure phase using appropriate tool. A case study has been conducted in a PVC manufacturing plant to execute measure phase to produce breakthrough results in real world environment.

DMAIC, SIPOC Diagram, FMEA, Cp, PVC Pipe Manufacturing, MSA, Gauge R & R, Bias Study

[01] Linderman, K., Schroeder, R.G., Zaheer, S., Liedtke, C. and Choo, A.S. (2004) ‘Integrating quality management practices with knowledge creation processes’, Journal of Operations Management, Vol. 22, No. 6, pp.589–607. [02] Singh, B.J. and Khanduja, D. (2010) ‘DMAICT: a road map to quick changeovers’, InternationalJournal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage, Vol. 6, Nos. 1/2, pp.31–52. [03] Lee, H. and Choi, B. (2003) ‘Knowledge management enablers, processes, and organizational performance: an integrative view and empirical examination’, Journal of Management Information Systems, Vol. 20, No. 1, pp.179–228. [04] Roth, A., Schroeder, R., Huang, X. and Kristal, M. (2007) Handbook of Metrics for Research in Operations Management, Sage, Thousand Oaks, CA. [05] Nonaka, I. and von Krogh, G. (2009) ‘Tacit knowledge and knowledge conversion: controversy and advancement in organizational knowledge creation theory’, Organization Science, Vol. 20, No. 3, pp.635–652. [06] Zahra, S. and George, G. (2002) ‘Absorptive capacity: a review, re-conceptualization, and extension’,Academy of Management Review, Vol. 27, No. 2, pp.185–203. [07] Jugdev, K. and Muller, R. (2005) ‘A retrospective look at our evolving understanding of project success’, Project Management Journal, Vol. 36, No. 4, pp.19–31. [08] Singh, B.J. and Khanduja, D. (2012), “Developing operation measurement strategy during Six Sigma implementation: a foundry case study”, Int. J. Advanced Operations Management, Vol. 4, No. 4, pp. 323–349. [09] Choo A., Linderman K., Schroeder R. (2007), “Method and context perspectives on learning and knowledge creation in quality improvement projects”, Management Science, Vol. 53, No. 3, pp. 437–450. [10] Laws K.J., Gun B.Ferry M. (2006), “Effect of die-casting parameters on the production of high quality bulk metallic glass samples”, Mater. Sci. Eng. A, Vol. 425, No. 1–2, pp. 114–120. [11] Bendoly E. and Hur D. (2007), “Bipolarity in reactions to operational constraints: OM bugs under an OB lens”, Journal of Operations Management, Vol. 25, Vol. 1, pp. 1–13. [12] Snee R.D. and Hoerl R.W. (2003), “Leading Six Sigma: a step-by-step guide based on experience with GE and other Six Sigma companies”, Financial Times, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ. [13] Hoerl, R.W. (2001), “Six Sigma black belts: what do they need to know”, Journal of Quality Technology, Vol. 33, No. 4, pp. 391–406. [14] Yang, C. and Yeh, T. (2007), “An integrated model of Hoshin management and Six Sigma in high-tech firms”, Total Quality Management, Vol. 18, No. 6, pp. 653–665. [15] Nonthaleerak P. and Hendry L. (2008), “Exploring the Six Sigma phenomenon using multiple case study evidence”, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 28, No. 3, pp. 279–303. [16] Wiklund H. and Wiklund P. (2002), “Widening the Six Sigma concept: an approach to improve organizational learning”, Total Quality Management, Vol.13, No. 2, pp. 233–252. [17] Singh, B.J., Khanduja, D. and Singh, A. (2011), Demystifying MSA: A Structured Approach for Indian Foundry SMEs, International Journal of Quality and Innovation, Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 217-236. [18] Singh, B.J. and Khanduja, D. (2011), Introduce Quality Processes through DOE: A Case Study in Die Casting Foundry, International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, Vol. 8, No. 4, pp. 373-397.