DMAIC Methodology Research Articles

Data Analytics in Agriculture: Enhancing Decision-Making for Crop Yield Optimization and Sustainable Practices

Collaboration across the agriculture supply chain is essential to address the high-yield demand and sustainable practices amid global overpopulation. Limited resources, such as soil and water, are compromised by excessive chemical agents and nutrient use. The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart farming offer solutions by optimizing agent applications, data analysis, and farm monitoring. Evidence from numerous studies indicates that collaboration in the supply chain, including farmers, can improve efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, and enhance crop quality. This paper investigates the transformation of traditional agriculture into smart farming through the integration of IoT technology and community partnerships. It presents a case study focused on educating farm owners about advanced technologies to enhance decision-making, improve crop yields, and promote sustainability. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of data analytics in agriculture. Farmers in the southern region of Zagreb, Croatia, were trained on the use of sensors and yield monitoring. Small farms in that region face challenges in improving yields due to limited capacity and lack of entrepreneurial experience. The DMAIC methodology was employed to address these issues and measure relevant parameters. The paper also discusses consistent patterns between electrical conductivity (EC) measurements and potassium levels in soil. It explains the potential of estimating potassium concentrations based on EC readings, or vice versa. Leveraging EC as a proxy for potassium levels could offer a cost-effective means of assessing soil fertility and nutrient dynamics. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) biplot analysis is presented, showing that pH values behaved independently. Understanding these dynamics enhances knowledge of soil variability and informs sustainable soil management practices.

Applying DMAIC Methodology to Reduce Egg Breakage Rates in Small-Scale Production Enterprise in Mandalay Region

This study employed the DMAIC methodology (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) to investigate and minimize Unusable egg breakage (Completely broken eggs) at Golden Yolk farm. Data was collected using a triangulated approach that included direct observations of egg-handling processes, interviews with experienced farm personnel, and a review of historical breakage records in order to ensure reliability. Standardized checklists were also used, and initial analysis revealed a total defect rate of 0.74%, with Unusable breakage being the highest contributor at 0.47% among all types of defects. Qualitative tools like Pareto charts, FMEA, and Fishbone diagrams identified the main culprits of inadequate handling techniques and the absence of appropriate equipment. Subsequent interventions focused on implementing farm personnel training, standardized handling procedures, and introducing relevant equipment, significantly reducing Unusable egg breakage from 0.47% to 0.39%. This approach demonstrates the effectiveness of the DMAIC methodology for addressing Unusable egg breakage in the egg farm. These findings offer valuable insights for improving farm operations, ensuring consistent, high-quality egg production, and minimizing associated losses.

Enhancing Paper Cup Manufacturing Quality Using Six Sigma's DMAIC Methodology

Enhancing Paper Cup Manufacturing Quality Using Six Sigma's DMAIC Methodology

LEAN SIX SIGMA APPROACH FOR SIMULTANEOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT OF COURSES IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The purpose of this study is to assess whether Lean Six Sigma can improve the quality of teaching-learning processes in higher educational institutions during the Covid-19 pandemic. The integration of e-learning technologies with lean six sigma (LSS). DMAIC stands for five phases of sig sigma project: define, measure, analyze, improve, and control was applied to implement quality assurance in the teaching-learning process. Action research was adopted in 30 courses of a particular engineering programme. The methodology was applied as a course improvement tool, and the challenges encountered during the implementation were also studied. The LSS DMAIC methodology could successfully improve the quality of various courses simultaneously through online mode during the Covid-19 pandemic. The adopted methodology could assist in effectively responding during the present stage of uncertainty and provide stakeholders with guidelines to deal with the post-pandemic era. In terms of practical implications, this study discusses a new approach to improving the quality of the teaching-learning process in higher educational institutions. The LSS DMAIC is applied with the help of online educational and social media platforms for the simultaneous improvement of courses in a particular engineering programme.

Strategic optimization: redesign of internal processes in international bulk companies

This research aims to redesign the surveillance and scale processes of an international bulk company, with the aim of streamlining and improving them. The DMAIC Methodology was systematically applied at each stage from a structured approach that improved and optimized existing internal processes, clearly establishing the problem and objectives of the redesign to subsequently collect and analyze necessary information, establishing key measurement metrics that evaluated the success of the redesign. Once the causes and areas for improvement were identified, solutions were developed and changes were implemented in the structure of the processes. The results obtained were the redesign of the company's internal surveillance and scale processes with optimized times of 44 and 77 minutes respectively, obtaining a difference of 25 to 33 minutes, allowing the company to carry out a total of 900 loads per month in 28 minutes. per unit load.

A STUDY ON OUTBOUND CUSTOMER COMPLAINT DUE TO INVENTORY VARIANCES AT APOLLO TIRES NDC1

This study defines into outbound customer complaints arising from inventory variances at Apollo Tyres NDC1, with the primary objective of understanding and addressing the underlying issues. Through a secondary objective, it aims to identify root causes, assess customer impact, apply the DMAIC methodology, and evaluate improvement measures. Using a structured approach, the study examines factors contributing to inventory variances and their implications on customer satisfaction and loyalty metrics. By implementing the DMAIC framework, inventory management processes are systematically analysed to identify areas for improvement. Improvement measures, including macro implementation, wall-to-wall audits, and the proposed Outbound Integrated Optimization and Navigation System (OIONS), show promising results in reducing inventory variances and mitigating customer complaint.

Application of DMAIC methodology to reduce pre-analytical errors in a tertiary hospital clinical chemistry laboratory in India

Application of DMAIC methodology to reduce pre-analytical errors in a tertiary hospital clinical chemistry laboratory in India

Reducing Defects Using DMAIC Methodology in an Automotive Industry

Quality is when it meets the wants and expectations of customers or even exceeds them. Every company must raise the quality of its current products and services. A complete and adaptable approach for establishing, maintaining, and maximizing company success is Six Sigma. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) is one of the tools used to implement Six Sigma. PT. KRM is one company engaged in the automotive sector, which produces Colt Diesel trucks. This research focuses on the welding processes. Defective products were found in as much as 5% of total production, exceeding the company's target of 3%. This research was conducted to determine the process capability based on product defects with the Six Sigma DMAIC method approach, then to find out the proposal for implementing quality control by analyzing the causes of defects in the production process and then looking for continuous improvement with the 5W+1H concept. The improvement was made to decrease the DPMO value of 4.496 and increase the sigma value of 0.19. This study demonstrates how the Six Sigma DMAIC approach can improve the quality of the cabin production process for the part side outer pillar LH. This case can help company managers apply Six Sigma methods to solve complex problems in other processes.

Six Sigma Technique to Reduce Waiting Time: A Practical Application in Passport Affairs Directorate

This study investigates the impact of the Six Sigma methodology on improving waiting times in passport directorates. The Six Sigma methodology is crucial for enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in passport directorates, aiming to reduce waiting times and increase customer satisfaction by organizing services more effectively. The research was conducted in the Passport Affairs Department (Mansour Passports) from November 8, 2022, to April 19, 2023, with a sample size of 53 employees and citizens. The problem of this study is to shed light on the role played by the Six Sigma methodology in improving waiting time at the Passport Affairs Department. The study adopted the DMAIC methodology (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) and used statistical software (SPSS) to calculate Six Sigma levels for both citizens and employees. Access and service data analysis was conducted using Win QSB software, and arrival and service times were calculated for all stages (counter employees, accounts, and manager's computer). The most significant results indicate that the directorate operates at the first level of Sigma levels, while citizens are at the second level. There is a significant and inverse effect of Six Sigma principles on waiting. The total time a citizen waits from entering the passport office to receiving their passport is very long. Paper type: Research Paper

Six Sigma in preconstruction: case study on improving of reinforcement steel processing

Lean process improvements are crucial for enhancing production efficiency. In my research, I examine the application of the DMAIC methodology to develop the MEP facility within the framework of lean Six Sigma. Highlighting the challenges of precast concrete production, my study details how lean management aids in efficient process design and measurement. Introducing lean Six Sigma methodology involves standardizing processes and ensuring their effective development, contributing to the facility's efficiency

Application of Lean Six Sigma to Reduce Delays in Engineering Changes

Quality methodologies have provided improvements for the organizations, increasing their competitive nature. Therefore, the present article was developed toward the reduction in the incidence of delays while developing engineering changes in an agricultural machine factory through the application of Lean Six Sigma concepts. An engineering change consists of a multitasking process for a product change. The article stages were developed following the sequence proposed by the DMAIC methodology. Several tools associated with Lean Six Sigma, such as process mapping, Ishikawa diagram, brainstorming, and Kanban were used in this article. Also, statistical tests were carried out to check the consistency of the goals established by the organization regarding the deadline for carrying out the analyzed tasks and for proposing new goals. The development of this article allowed the identification and elimination of root causality which culminated in delays during the implementation of engineering changes, and in turn, reduced the incidence of delays by 95%. The article shows the importance of companies applying scientific methodologies and statistical analysis in their processes to improve their results. Finally, it contributes to the scientific community, exposing an adaptation of tools and showing that the implementation of a set of management tools can contribute to process improvements.

Proposal for the implementation of the DMAIC methodology as a tool to improve productivity in the manufacturing area of an organic chocolate company – 2022

Productivity is an indicator that allows calculating the capacity of organizations to use their resources to generate goods or services and, at the same time, to diagnose the state of the company generated by different internal and external factors. For this reason, manufacturing companies have to improve the productivity of their processes to obtain their final product through management tools and thus remain in the market. For this reason, this study proposes to determine how the application of the DMAIC methodology intervenes in the improvement of productivity in the manufacturing process of a company dedicated to the manufacture of organic chocolates, year 2022.the research was applied, it was carried out under a pre-experimental design, with a descriptive-explanatory level having as population the production of organic chocolates during 26 days and a sample of 13 days that corresponds to the period after applying the improvements. This sample was obtained by the data collection method and for its processing the Excel program was used. As a result of this study, it was obtained that with the implementation of the DMAIC methodology, productivity had an average increase of 1,75 %, going from 92,32 % to 94,07 % after applying the improvements. Regarding the elements of productivity, an average increase of 0,89 % in efficiency and 0,93 % in effectiveness was obtained. It is concluded that the DMAIC methodology as an improvement tool significantly intervenes in the increase of productivity in the processes and that its application should be of knowledge for other organizations in the manufacturing sector

Powder Detergent Packaging Line Improvement by Lean Six Sigma DMAIC Methodology

This investigation was a case of study in the powder detergent packaging line and aimed to reduce all those wastes that do not add value to the product, increasing the cost of production. Reducing or eliminating waste within the manufacturing industry becomes necessary for sustainable businesses over time and keeps generating development. To achieve it, the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC methodology was implemented in a detergent powder packaging line, to identify the problems that afflicted and made production more expensive. By using quality tools (such as Pareto and Ishikawa diagrams, 5S application, Poka-Yokes, SMED, training personnel, and standardizing processes) it was possible to reduce unproductive times. Energy consumption was reduced by up to 20 %, also efficiency and machine availability increased by 10.98 % and 7.32 %, respectively. The general performance of the line increased by 15.16 %, which translates into significant monthly savings of USD 71 442.05. By applying these improvement techniques, the most significant efficiency was registered in 1 kg packages, going from 47 % to 89 %, approximately. To maintain this productivity and even to perfect it, it is necessary to hire specialized personnel who know the production processes and industrial operations.

Model Applied to the Purchasing Area Using Lean Service and Six Sigma to Improve Gross Margin in a Company in the Hotel Sector

This research was carried out to determine proposals for improving the gross margin within a company in the hotel sector in Lima, applying the Lean Service and Six Sigma DMAIC methodologies, whose combined approaches provide a global approach to the analysis of the company and helps to extend the improvements to the other areas of this. The area chosen to carry out the DMAIC analysis (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) was the purchase one, since this presents a greater number of problems, caused by the low levels of quality offered by suppliers and by the poor management of this, harming the service provided to customers. The techniques chosen for the solution of the root causes of these problems have historically been successfully applied in the manufacturing industry; however, it has not been until recent years that these were also considered for application in companies in the service sector, so the objective of this article is to demonstrate, complementing past research, that these methodologies can have the same success in both sectors.

DMAIC methodology for productivity improvement of preventive maintenance in an oil and gas company

DMAIC methodology for productivity improvement of preventive maintenance in an oil and gas company

Ergonomics intervention with DMAIC methodology application - a case study in the food manufacturing industry

Ergonomics intervention with DMAIC methodology application - a case study in the food manufacturing industry

Lean Six Sigma Approach for Wait Time Analysis in Radiology Services at Krakatau Medika Hospital

Krakatau Medika Hospital (RSKM), an integral part of Indonesia Healthcare Corporation (IHC), grapples with challenges in radiology services and wait time standards. Amidst the surge in healthcare facilities, IHC, overseen by PT Pertamina Bina Medika, strategically plans Lean Six Sigma implementation to enhance radiology quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) complexities. The research methodology adopts a qualitative approach, incorporating process flow observations, document reviews, and in-depth interviews at the Radiology Installation of Krakatau Medika Hospital. Data collection involves direct observations, in-depth interviews, and research instruments with various stakeholders. The study, encompassing January to July 2023, reveals RSKM's radiology indicators falling short, with excessive wait times jeopardizing service effectiveness. The Lean Six Sigma approach, utilizing the DMAIC methodology, aims to eliminate waste, improve processes, and enhance organizational performance. Findings emphasize the urgency for improvements, with Lean Six Sigma anticipated to play a pivotal role in reducing wait times and overall performance enhancement. Ethical considerations guide the research, ensuring informed consent and confidentiality. Collaborative efforts with RSKM management are vital for sustained positive outcomes. The study underscores Lean Six Sigma's potential benefits, emphasizing ethical healthcare research principles

USE OF CONTROL GRAPHICS TO IMPROVE THE ANTHRACITE CALCINATION PROCESS IN AN ELECTRIC FURNACE

In the present work, the study of the application of control charts was carried out in the improvement of an anthracite calcination process in an electric oven for the manufacture of electrode paste (Soderberg). As a support for the control charts, the Standardization tools, Cause and Effect Diagram and the Six Sigma methodology were used to identify problems and proposals of improvement for it. Additionally, the anthracite calcination process was also presented, which when done correctly, with material within the proposed resistivity range, guarantees the final quality of the product produced at the pulp mill. The results of this work show that with the use of the Control Graph together with the Six Sigma DMAIC Methodology and the Cause and Effect Diagram, it was possible to reduce the amount of material outside the range of value specification from 70% to 14%, an 56% reduction, which represents an average decrease of 179.2 tons of material out of specification per month, generating a drop in the amount of material to be reprocessed, which translates into savings for the company and the ability to supply material for the manufacture of electrode paste.

DMAIC methodology application in bakery for French bread-quality standardization purposes

French bread is one of the food items mostly consumed in Brazil, as well as Brazilian bakeries’ core product. Its growing demand forces bakeries to adopt strategies to speed up the production of Brazilians’ “favorite”, without losing its typical taste and quality. The current study was carried out in a traditional bakery in Araraquara City, São Paulo State. Its aim is to reduce the number of non-conformities in the French bread-production process. The DMAIC cycle was herein adopted as main methodology, although other tools, such as data collection and analysis, brainstorming and Pareto charts, 5W1H and risk mapping, were also used. Results have evidenced that more than 50% of the investigated production was not in compliance due to labor issues, raw material type and the adoption of non-standard processes. Finally, an action plan comprising bakery-intervention proposals was prepared and it evidenced the need of standardizing the used chemical yeast, of training the bakery’s employees and of standardizing the time of each production stage.

The empirical study of gradation of crushed sand concrete properties using six sigma DMAIC methodology

Fine aggregate plays a key role as a filler material in concrete’s fresh and hardened properties. Generally, in Portland cement concrete aggregate occupies 70-85% by weight and 60-70% by mass. In Pakistan, Lawrence pur the sand as the only sand that meets the ASTM standards. But due to heavy transportation costs, it is not cost-effective to use in most parts of the country. The tests were carried out in accordance with ASTM standards, and the concrete mix designed with three water-cement ratios of 0.40,0.45, and 0.50 called for a mixing procedure. At 28 days of curing, an M30 concrete mix comprising five control mixes including parent concrete was evaluated and compared to parent concrete. This experimental work aimed to enhance the fresh and hardened properties of concrete such as the workability of concrete mix, compressive, and flexural strengths by using locally available Jhelum River sand gradation crushed sand (passing sieve #4, the waste product of Sargodha coarse aggregate), s a fine aggregate material. Using six sigma DMAIC Methodology 9 defects in the Jhelum River sand and control mix have been identified and corrective measures were taken to improve the quality of the concrete mix. The results derived from this experimental work show that adding 50% crushed sand in Jhelum River sand increases compressive strength by 27% and flexural strength by 20% which makes it according to ASTM Standards. The use of crushed sand as an alternative to natural river sand efficient and safe material. This control mix also reduces the construction cost by 10% in comparison to lawerancepur sand.