DefinePhase

DefinePhase is the initial stage of the DMAIC cycle in Six Sigma, focused on articulating the problem, establishing project scope, and aligning stakeholders. It creates a common understanding of what will be improved and why, setting the foundation for the rest of the project.

Key activities in DefinePhase include capturing the voice of the customer and translating it into critical-to-quality characteristics, developing a clear problem statement, and establishing a specific, measurable goal. Teams create a business case or project rationale, define the project boundaries, and identify key stakeholders. A high-level process map (often a SIPOC—Supplier, Input, Process, Output, Customer) helps visualize the scope and interfaces. The phase also involves selecting a project team, assigning roles, and outlining risks, constraints, and success criteria. Deliverables typically include the Project Charter, CTQ tree, problem and goal statements, SIPOC diagram, high-level process map, and an initial risk assessment and communication plan.

Outputs from DefinePhase provide the baseline for the MeasurePhase, including defined metrics, baseline data collection plans, and agreed-upon success criteria. By solidifying scope, objectives, and expected benefits, the phase ensures alignment with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations, and reduces project drift. Effective DefinePhase requires collaboration among sponsors, champions, Black Belts, and team members, and results in a clear roadmap for data collection, process understanding, and subsequent analysis.

In summary, DefinePhase translates a broad problem into a well-scoped, objective-driven plan that guides the remaining DMAIC activities and aims to deliver measurable improvements.