Six Sigma
Data-driven methodology for defect reduction and variation control
ISO 22301
International standard for business continuity management systems.
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC and defect reduction across industries, while ISO 22301 builds resilience via BCMS and disruption planning. Companies adopt Six Sigma for cost savings and quality gains; ISO 22301 for continuity and risk mitigation.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma Quantitative Methods
ISO 22301
ISO 22301:2019 Business continuity management systems — Requirements
Key Features
- PDCA cycle drives continual BCMS improvement
- Business Impact Analysis identifies critical functions
- Annex SL enables ISO 27001 integration
- Leadership commitment mandates policy and roles
- Operational testing verifies recovery strategies
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
Six Sigma Details
What It Is
Six Sigma (ISO 13053:2011) is a de facto framework for quantitative process improvement using data-driven methods. It focuses on reducing variation and defects to achieve near-perfect quality, primarily through the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) cycle or DMADV for new processes.
Key Components
- DMAIC/DMADV methodologies with phase-specific deliverables like charters, SIPOC, MSA, FMEA, control plans.
- Professional **belt hierarchyChampions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
- Metrics: 3.4 DPMO, sigma levels, capability indices (Cp/Cpk).
- Governance via tollgates, SPC, audits; certification via ASQ/IASSC BoKs.
Why Organizations Use It
Delivers financial savings (e.g., GE $1B+), risk reduction, customer satisfaction. Voluntary adoption for competitive edge, integrates with Lean/ISO 9001. Builds data culture, stakeholder trust via proven ROI.
Implementation Overview
Phased rollout: executive sponsorship, training, project portfolio, DMAIC execution, sustainment. Applies enterprise-wide across industries; 12-18 months typical, requires stats tools (Minitab), change management.
ISO 22301 Details
What It Is
ISO 22301:2019 is the international standard titled "Security and resilience — Business continuity management systems — Requirements". It specifies requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a Business Continuity Management System (BCMS). The primary purpose is to help organizations protect against, respond to, and recover from disruptions like cyberattacks or natural disasters. It uses a risk-based PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) approach aligned with Annex SL for integration with other standards.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 form the core: context, leadership, planning (including BIA and RA), support, operations, performance evaluation, and improvement.
- No prescriptive controls; flexible, tailored requirements.
- Built on PDCA cycle; certification model involves two-stage audits by accredited bodies, valid for 3 years with surveillance.
Why Organizations Use It
- Drives resilience, reduces downtime and costs, enhances regulatory compliance (e.g., NIS Directive).
- Builds stakeholder trust, lowers insurance premiums, boosts competitiveness.
- Manages risks holistically, integrates with ISO 27001 for IMS.
Implementation Overview
- Starts with gap analysis, BIA/RA, policy development, training, testing exercises, audits.
- Applicable to all sizes/sectors globally; voluntary but certification-proven. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | ISO 22301 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Business continuity management, disruption resilience |
| Industry | All industries, manufacturing to services worldwide | All sectors, critical in finance, healthcare globally |
| Nature | De facto methodology, voluntary certification | Formal ISO standard, voluntary certification |
| Testing | DMAIC tollgates, pilot testing, SPC monitoring | Tabletop exercises, simulations, internal audits |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, project failure risks | No legal penalties, certification loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and ISO 22301
Six Sigma FAQ
ISO 22301 FAQ
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