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ANSWER:

The non-normal calculation is based on the maximum likihood estimate of the distribution parameters rather than the mean and variance associated with the normal distribution. These parameters estimate the distribution proportions for the capability calculation. For example, a Gamma distribution is defined by shape, scale and theshold parameters. A Poisson distribution is defined by Lambda, its mean and variance having the same value.

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Expanded Question:

I am working on a SIPOC diagram for an urgent care facility. The test facility is the Supplier. I can’t figure out the Input, but the Output was provided which is Diagnosis and the Customer is the Doctor and Patient. I was thinking the test itself would be the Input. Please help.

In determining what to capture in a SIPOC, I find it is frequently helpful to identify the start and stop of the process up front.  I find that when people do this, they frequently find it easier to identify the specific outputs and inputs that they need to capture.  If, in your example you want to frame the process you are mapping as starting with the receipt of the test from the testing facility, I would agree that the test results are the input.

If you are mapping the overall treatment of a patient at the facility, test results are one of many potential inputs to the process.

QUESTION:

ANSWER:

Wastes in banking fall into the same categories as other transactional processes. In terms of examples of the Eight Wastes, there is:

• “Transportation” or touches related to the number of times a check is handled before it is deposited;
• “Inventory” shows up as emails waiting for answers or transactions waiting for batch processing;
• “Waiting” is experienced by customers while their deposits have not cleared;

Any tasks that require approval may be targeted as the ‘Waste of Intellectual Capital” if the decisions could have been made at lower levels. Banks are constantly trying to balance risk management to prevent fraud while not overburdening their processes with inspections and wait times that can annoy customers and increase labor costs.

There are lots of opportunities in banking processes for the application of Lean Six Sigma!

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ANSWER:

You definitely do not have to go through your current employer to get training. There are many organizations that provide Lean Six Sigma training including GoLeanSixSigma.com. Courses typically range in depth, but it’s always best to go through a workshop with a project or challenge to use when applying the tools can concepts.

Although it is not necessary to go through your employer to access training, one of the benefits of getting the training through an employer is that they may reimburse you for costs or pay for your training. There are many public courses offered online and live. Costs vary by provider and location.