There is a new trend in Six Sigma these days, and that is incorporating TRIZ into the Six Sigma methodology. TRIZ (pronounced “TREEZ”) is the Russian acronym for the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving.
The TRIZ Way for Creative Problem Solving
Photo from Wikipedia.
Among Six Sigma’s goals is reducing cost, yet still being able to do more in terms of improving processes to please the customer. The question now is: How could TRIZ Six Sigma help to plan and implement efficiently cost-reduction initiatives on a long-term basis?
OneSixSigma answers:
First it is reasonable to revisit, how we calculate Costs as a Primary Business Metric: Total Life Cost (TLC) of the Product/Service, i.e. total costs during it’s whole Life Cycle should be considered, including COPQs at all phases as well as COPQs of all changes implemented.
Second, it is important not only to monitor (Measure), to analyse but also to PREDICT! variation of the different contributors (turn keys) of these TLC costs along with the whole Product life cycle.
Third, apparently different improvement opportunities should be permanently evaluated, prioritized and considered including complete (re-)design of the product and decommissioning of the previous version.
Fourth, interdisciplinary project teams should be able to find efficient solutions and to implement the changes, which are sustainable long-term.
Succeeding posts will talk about TRIZ and Six Sigma, and together how these two strategies make a whole lot of difference in the life of organizations.
Great update! I didnt study this in graduate school so its like a refresher. Lets see more of the TRIZ rather than forests hehehe.
Thanks, Reden! Yes, this TRIZ methodology is very interesting! It’s the method used in avoiding defects in pit stops during F1 racing. If you’re into F1 racing, you’ll know the value of it.