Customer Reviews

The Complete Guide to Six Sigma

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"The Complete Guide to Six Sigma" by Thomas Pyzdek (1999, Quality Publishing) is precisely what the title suggests: complete. As one would expect from this well known author in the use of statistical methods for process improvement, his coverage of the "how" of Six Sigma (the technical part) is outstanding. It is hard to imagine how so thorough a discussion of such topics could be presented more clearly.

However, the real strength of the book is that this technical material is preceded by the "why" of Six Sigma (the management part) -- explaining what it takes to get management to "buy in" to the concept of using science to run a business (apparently not an obvious concept). It has probably been the lack of sufficient attention to the importance of this area that has caused so many "Total Quality" initiatives to flounder. This book will correct that oversight. Anyone wishing to transform their company into one that routinely uses proven scientific methods to realize significant gains in quality, productivity, and sales should study this book carefully.

David B. Laney, Director of Statistical Methodology, BellSouth Corporation

The title says it all. Thomas Pyzdek covers everything that one needs to know to successfully implement six sigma concepts. After a brief introduction of the history behind six sigma, Pyzdek provides a detailed summary of the tools, methodologies and techniques necessary to successfuly tackle a six sigma project. Both "soft and hard" tools are described. The methodology is understandable. Pyzdek takes special care to explain where specific techniques can (and cannot) be applied. This is especially helpful for the reader that has forgotten more then they remember about statistics.

Pyzdek is ideallly suited to write this book. He is one of a limited few authors that has a strong statitical education coupled with an in-depth knowledge of business. PLUS he can write.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone that is serious about making improvements through the application of six sigma methodology. Everything that ones needs to know is here in one book. And for those that need additional information the references are excellent.

As usual, Mr. Pyzdek takes a complex and confusing subject and makes it easy to understand with concise prose and clear examples. As he has done in his other books (Pyzdek's Guide to SPC) he writes to the people who really need to understand the material: Quality Engineers and Managers. You will find this book a rewarding experince and a valuable addition to your bookshelf.

Mr. Pyzdek treats the subject of organizational leadership, team make-up and team management extensively. He provides good suggestions for the groundwork of Management's role in Six Sigma. I found the section on training and education a good reminder chapter for infrequent trainers. The Principles section merely glossed over the essentials of Six Sigma philosophy. I found the Mikel Harry book much more helpful in this arena. And finally, I think the three chapters on Six Sigma Methods were arranged in a manner that makes it difficult for someone to know when to apply such tools. It does make a good second source to Breyfogle's excellent book on the Six Sigma tools.