Six Sigma
Data-driven methodology for process variation reduction and defect prevention
CMMC
DoD certification verifying cybersecurity for defense contractors
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives voluntary process excellence through DMAIC across industries, reducing defects for cost savings. CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors, protecting sensitive data to secure contracts. Organizations adopt Six Sigma for efficiency; CMMC for compliance and eligibility.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma process improvement
Key Features
- Structured DMAIC methodology for process improvement
- Belt hierarchy of trained practitioners and champions
- Data-driven statistical analysis with MSA validation
- Tollgate reviews and project charter governance
- Control plans and SPC for gain sustainment
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)
Key Features
- Three cumulative maturity levels aligned to data sensitivity
- 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls across 14 domains at Level 2
- Third-party C3PAO assessments for verified Level 2 certification
- Mandatory supply chain flow-down and subcontractor verification
- POA&Ms limited to 180-day closure for remediation flexibility
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 and methodology, anchored by ISO 13053:2011, focused on reducing process variation and defects to achieve 3.4 DPMO. It employs a data-driven, statistical approach via DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) for existing processes and DMADV for new designs.
Key Components
- Structured DMAIC/DMADV phases with tollgates and deliverables like charters, SIPOC, MSA.
- Belt hierarchy: Champions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
- Statistical tools: capability indices, hypothesis testing, DOE, FMEA, SPC.
- Governance via leadership sponsorship; certification via ASQ/IASSC BoKs.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives financial savings (e.g., GE $1B+), customer satisfaction, risk reduction. Voluntary but strategic for quality leadership, compliance integration (ISO 9001), competitive edge in manufacturing/healthcare/finance.
Implementation Overview
Enterprise deployment: executive alignment, training, project portfolios (4-6 months each). Applies universally; scales by size/industry. Involves audits, sustainment plans; certifications optional but recommended.
CMMC Details
What It Is
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a DoD framework and certification program ensuring cybersecurity protections for Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It uses a tiered, control-based approach mapped to NIST standards with defined assessment pathways.
Key Components
- Three cumulative levels: Level 1 (17 FAR controls), Level 2 (110 NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 practices across 14 domains), Level 3 (+24 NIST SP 800-172 enhancements).
- Built on FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171/172; includes System Security Plans (SSPs), POA&Ms (limited 180-day closure).
- Assessment models: self-assessments (SPRS), C3PAO, DIBCAC.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for DoD contracts to avoid ineligibility, debarment.
- Reduces cyber risks, enhances supply chain trust, provides competitive edge in bids.
- Improves resilience, lowers incident costs, builds stakeholder confidence.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scoping, gap analysis, remediation, assessment, sustainment.
- Targets DIB contractors/subcontractors; complex for multi-tier chains.
- Requires C3PAO/DIBCAC audits for Levels 2/3, annual affirmations. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | CMMC |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Cybersecurity controls for FCI/CUI protection |
| Industry | All industries, global, any size | Defense Industrial Base, US DoD contractors |
| Nature | Voluntary methodology and certification | Mandatory certification for contracts |
| Testing | Internal tollgates, project audits, no formal cert | Self-assess/C3PAO/DIBCAC every 3 years |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, program failure risk | Contract ineligibility, debarment |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and CMMC
Six Sigma FAQ
CMMC FAQ
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