Why do Six Sigma Projects Fail?

According the a recent survey in ASQ’s Six Sigma Forum Magazine the following are the top reasons six sigma projects fail within companies listed from last to first:

8. Training was not practical – We ensure this does not happen because we require you complete a project and submit it to one of our Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belts for approval. Completing a project is the only way you can truly demonstrate you understand and can apply the concepts covered in the material. This results in success on your first project and positions you for future success on projects because you've already demonstrated the ability.

7. The project scope was too small for the DMAIC process – We will ensure your project scope is not to small because we will review it and approve it prior to you begin work on it. If you have selected a project that is too small, we will recommend you select a different project.

6. The project was not well suited for the DMAIC model - We will review your project to ensure it is a good fit for the DMAIC approach

5. The Project scope is too large - We will review and qualify your project to make certain the scope is not beyond the boundries of success.
 

4. Data is not available -

3. Project solution is not implemented - Unfortuneately we cannot help with this problem.

2. Project goals are not linked to financials - We will work with you to ensure the project is financially quantifiable and linked to the strategic direction of your organization.

1. Lack of management support - This is outside our circle of control and cannot influence failure due to this.
 

In summary, the factors that are key to the success of a six sigma project are:
- Select the right project
- Collect the right data
- Link the project objectives to financial goals
- Gain management support