six sigma: a metric, a methodology and a management system

This article is a theoretical article regarding Six Sigma. Six Sigma has been interpreted over time within quality theory as a metric, methodology or a management system. We explain Six Sigma using a logistics context: Delivery-On-Time (DOT) rate problem. It is a theoretical context useful both for academic users and practitioners. At the beginning of the paper the DOT problem is generally described, while Sigma is presented according to statisticians view in the second part of the paper. Six Sigma is then presented as a metric for process’ capability. The fourth part of this article contains details regarding Six Sigma usage as a methodology for improvement, while the fifth part of this article refers to Six Sigma as a management system which can be used at firms’ level. The last chapter is dedicated to conclusions regarding the possible use of Six Sigma in Romania.