It has been observed that Six Sigma in IT has not really made headway. There are some IT companies that have embraced it but the initiative often fails to be continuous.
An article on iSixSigma discusses how a phased deployment can help Six Sigma in IT succeed. It specifically mentions a three-phased deployment model.
The following are the three phases of this deployment model:
Click on the image for a larger version.
- Middle out – This phase is driven by an individual or a small group of visionaries in the firm from middle management level. This group must keep the cost of the Lean Six Sigma program under check at all times. Projects may have a primarily bottom-line focus due to weak top leadership commitment.
- Move to top – This phase the first step toward a long-term business process excellence approach. Balanced scorecards should be created for every business unit or department and they should align directly to the firm’s corporate vision and mission.
- Top down – In this phase Lean Six Sigma benchmark practices and market performance should be discussed and an adoption decision should be made in the boardroom, with the CEO driving from the front. Champions, Master Black Belts, Black Belts and Green Belts should be developed to own and lead the Lean Six Sigma program. Projects should involve both top-line and bottom-line growth objectives, with a primary focus on customer satisfaction.
*Image is taken from the cited article.
