Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Practice Exam

In which phase of the DMAIC process are causes of defects identified?

1. a. Define

2. b. Measure

3. c. Analyze

4. d. Improve

The correct answer is: c. Analyze

In the DMAIC process, the phase dedicated to identifying the causes of defects is the Analyze phase. This phase is critical as it delves into the data collected during the Measure phase to uncover relationships and patterns that contribute to defects. During the Analyze phase, teams utilize various tools and techniques, such as root cause analysis, fishbone diagrams, and Pareto charts, to transport insights from data to actionable conclusions. The primary objective in this phase is to understand the "why" behind the defects and to pinpoint the specific factors that impact the quality of the process. By accurately identifying these causes, teams set the groundwork for developing effective solutions in the subsequent Improve phase, where the aim is to eliminate or mitigate the identified root causes, ultimately enhancing the process and reducing defects. This systematic approach ensures that interventions are focused on underlying issues rather than merely addressing symptoms of defects.