Developing an Assessment Tool for Two Organizations Using Six Sigma Principles

Abstract

:This article describes the development of a single assessment tool that is applicable to two organizations to reduce redundancy of operations. It is based on a case study of the application of Six Sigma tools and methods to develop an assessment tool for meeting the needs and procedures for the Office of Environmental Health and Engineering of the Albuquerque Area, Indian Health Service, and Region 6 of the Environmental Protection Agency, which had traditionally conducted independent surveys of water sewer and solid waste facilities of Indian tribal organizations in the same region. These efforts were focused on meeting the needs of tribal customers and the staff of both federal agencies following Six Sigma's Design Measure Analyze Improve and Control roadmap. Deliverables of the project included new survey forms, procedures, and training. The project resulted in the elimination of redundant services which in turn has allowed these organizations to be more cost effective in providing additional services to the tribal customers. This effort is resulting in similar adoptions in other regions of the country.