TUMx: Six Sigma Part 2: Analyze, Improve, Control course Syllabus

This course is the second part of a comprehensive Six Sigma learning path, focusing on the Analyze, Improve, and Control (AIC) phases of the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework. Over approximately 8–10 weeks, with a suggested effort of 4–6 hours per week, learners will gain hands-on experience in diagnosing process issues, designing data-driven improvements, and implementing controls to sustain results. The course blends practical methodologies with real-world applications in quality and process improvement across industries.

Module 1: Analyze Phase

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Understanding process variation and root causes
• Using cause-and-effect analysis and fishbone diagrams
• Applying basic statistics and hypothesis testing
• Evaluating process capability and performance metrics

Module 2: Root Cause Analysis Techniques

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Identifying sources of variation using data
• Interpreting correlation and scatter plots
• Conducting root cause validation
• Applying graphical and statistical tools for analysis

Module 3: Improve Phase

Estimated time: 20 hours

• Designing process improvement solutions
• Applying structured problem-solving methods
• Testing improvements through pilot studies
• Evaluating solutions using performance data

Module 4: Experimentation and Solution Evaluation

Estimated time: 16 hours

• Using data to compare improvement options
• Applying before-and-after analysis
• Understanding risk in implementation

Module 5: Control Phase

Estimated time: 18 hours

• Developing control plans for sustainability
• Implementing statistical process control (SPC)
• Monitoring process performance over time
• Preventing regression and maintaining gains

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 25 hours

• Analyze a real or simulated process using AIC tools
• Identify root causes and propose data-backed improvements
• Develop a control plan to sustain improvements

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with Six Sigma fundamentals and the DMAIC framework
• Basic understanding of data and process measurement concepts
• Completion of a prior course covering Define and Measure phases recommended

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Analyze process data to identify root causes of defects
• Apply statistical tools to evaluate and improve process performance
• Design and test effective process improvement solutions
• Implement control systems to maintain long-term process stability
• Contribute to operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives