Six Sigma

DMAICDefine, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control

The five-phase data-driven improvement cycle at the heart of Six Sigma for improving existing processes.

DMAIC is the structured roadmap of Six Sigma projects: Define the problem and goals, Measure the current state with data, Analyze to find root causes, Improve by testing and implementing solutions, and Control to lock in the gains.

It is the disciplined cousin of PDCA, emphasizing measurement, statistical analysis, and a formal control plan so improvements do not erode over time.

Go Deeper
Six Sigma guide→Lean Six Sigma guide→
Related Terms
Six Sigma
A data-driven methodology for reducing variation and defects to no more than 3.4 per million opportunities.
Lean Six Sigma
A methodology combining lean's focus on flow and waste with Six Sigma's focus on reducing variation and defects.
PDCA
A four-step iterative improvement cycle: Plan a change, Do it small, Check the results, Act to standardize or adjust.
SPC
Using control charts to monitor a process and distinguish normal variation from special-cause signals requiring action.
Root Cause Corrective Action
The disciplined process of finding a problem's fundamental cause and implementing a permanent fix.

Put DMAIC into practice

SymplProcess turns these concepts into working models, calculators, and templates your whole team can use — no spreadsheets required.

Open the App → Try the Process Modeler
← Browse all glossary terms