Six Sigma
De facto framework for defect reduction and variation control
BREEAM
Global sustainability certification for built environments
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC and defect reduction across industries, while BREEAM certifies sustainable buildings via category credits. Companies adopt Six Sigma for cost savings and quality; BREEAM for ESG compliance, asset value uplift, and green credentials.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Quantitative methods in Six Sigma
Key Features
- DMAIC structured methodology for process improvement
- Belt hierarchy of trained practitioners and champions
- Data-driven statistical analysis with MSA validation
- Tollgate reviews enforcing strategic project governance
- SPC control plans ensuring sustained performance gains
BREEAM
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
Key Features
- Credit-based weighted scoring across 10 categories
- Third-party certification by BRE Global
- Scheme-specific for new, in-use, infrastructure projects
- Evidence-driven with KBCN updates and manuals
- Focus on whole-life carbon and resilience
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
Six Sigma Details
What It Is
Six Sigma is a de facto industry standard (anchored by ISO 13053:2011) for quantitative process improvement. It employs a data-driven, statistical methodology focused on reducing variation, preventing defects, and achieving near-perfect quality (3.4 DPMO benchmark with 1.5σ shift).
Key Components
- DMAIC lifecycle (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) with mandatory deliverables like charters, SIPOC, MSA, FMEA, and control plans.
- Belt hierarchy: Champions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
- Tools: statistical analysis, SPC, DOE; governance via tollgates.
- Certification via bodies like ASQ (experience + projects required).
Why Organizations Use It
Drives financial savings (e.g., GE $1B+), customer satisfaction, and risk reduction. Voluntary but strategic for competitiveness; integrates with Lean/ISO for compliance. Builds data culture and leadership pipeline.
Implementation Overview
Phased rollout: executive sponsorship, training, project portfolio, DMAIC execution. Suits all sizes/industries; 4-6 month projects. No universal certification but ASQ/IASSC benchmarks; audits via internal governance.
BREEAM Details
What It Is
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a science-led sustainability certification framework for the built environment. It assesses environmental, social, and resilience performance across buildings, infrastructure, and communities throughout their lifecycle. The credit-based methodology evaluates performance against weighted categories, yielding ratings from Pass to Outstanding.
Key Components
- 10 core categories: Management, Health & Wellbeing, Energy, Transport, Water, Materials, Waste, Land Use & Ecology, Pollution, Innovation.
- Hundreds of credits with prerequisites, evidence requirements, and scheme-specific technical manuals.
- Built on third-party assurance via licensed assessors and BRE Global audits (ISO/IEC 17065 accredited).
Why Organizations Use It
- Drives operational savings (e.g., 22-33% energy reduction), asset value uplift (up to 30%), and ESG alignment.
- Meets planning incentives, investor demands, and EU Taxonomy.
- Mitigates risks in carbon, resilience, and compliance.
- Enhances market differentiation and tenant appeal.
Implementation Overview
- Phased approach: pre-assessment, design integration, construction evidence, certification.
- Applies to all sizes/industries globally; early assessor appointment key.
- Requires BRE certification with ongoing In-Use recertification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | BREEAM |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Building sustainability, environmental performance, health |
| Industry | All industries worldwide, any size | Construction, real estate, infrastructure globally |
| Nature | Voluntary methodology and certification | Voluntary assessment and certification |
| Testing | DMAIC projects, statistical validation, tollgates | Assessor audits, evidence review, BRE QA |
| Penalties | No penalties, loss of gains/certification | No penalties, loss of certification/rating |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and BREEAM
Six Sigma FAQ
BREEAM FAQ
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