SSDSI Blog Archives

TAKT Time: A Key Tool for Managing Production Speed

Takt time is a fundamental concept in manufacturing and other production environments, often misunderstood and confused with cycle time. It plays a crucial role in synchronizing production rates with customer demand and ensuring operational efficiency. Takt time...

What is a Six Sigma Black Belt?

The concept of the Six Sigma Black Belt emerged as part of the broader Six Sigma methodology developed in the 1980s by Motorola. At the time, Motorola was facing intense competition from Japanese manufacturers, who had gained a reputation for producing high-quality...

What is a Six Sigma Green Belt?

The term “Green Belt” is more than just a color; it signifies a specific level of proficiency and responsibility within the Six Sigma framework, drawing an analogy from martial arts ranking systems. It represents a practitioner who has moved beyond basic...

What is the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ)?

The Cost of Poor Quality (CoPQ) refers to the financial impact caused by delivering subpar products or services. It represents the costs associated with deficiencies in quality, which can affect both a company’s bottom line and its reputation. This concept is crucial...

What is LEAN? | LEAN Thinking

Implementing Lean is a significant commitment that requires ongoing effort. There is no endpoint; instead, Lean becomes a way of life within the organization. Companies must continually assess their processes, seeking new ways to improve and adapt. It is not just a...

What is Gemba? The Real Place in Lean & Kaizen

In the world of business improvement and lean management, “Gemba” is more than just a buzzword—it’s a philosophy. Gemba, a Japanese term that translates to “the real place,” refers to the actual location where work happens and value is created. Whether it’s a factory...