Six Sigma
De facto standard for defect reduction and variation control
ISO 28000
International standard for supply chain security management systems
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC and defect reduction across industries, while ISO 28000 establishes security management systems for supply chains. Companies adopt Six Sigma for cost savings and quality gains; ISO 28000 for risk mitigation and compliance assurance.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma process improvement
Key Features
- Structured DMAIC methodology with tollgates
- Professional belt hierarchy and roles
- Data-driven statistical root cause analysis
- Executive Champions and governance model
- 3.4 DPMO benchmark with sustainment controls
ISO 28000
ISO 28000:2022 Security management systems Requirements
Key Features
- Risk-based supply chain security assessment and treatment
- PDCA cycle for continual SMS improvement
- Controls for external providers and suppliers
- Integration with ISO 31000 and ISO 22301
- Leadership commitment and measurable objectives
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 framework (ISO 13053:2011 provides formal guidance) for process improvement via data-driven methods. Its primary purpose is reducing variation, preventing defects, and achieving near-perfect quality (3.4 DPMO). Core approach: DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) for existing processes; DMADV for new designs.
Key Components
- DMAIC/DMADV methodologies with phase deliverables and tollgates.
- Belt hierarchy: Champions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
- Statistical tools: MSA, DOE, SPC, FMEA.
- Governance: project charters, VOC-to-CTQ, control plans. No single certification; bodies like ASQ offer credentials.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives financial savings (e.g., GE $1B+), customer satisfaction, risk reduction. Voluntary but strategic for competitiveness; integrates with Lean/ISO 9001. Builds data culture, stakeholder trust via proven ROI.
Implementation Overview
Phased rollout: sponsorship, training, project portfolio, DMAIC execution, sustainment. Applies enterprise-wide across industries; 4-6 month projects. Requires leadership, training; audits via internal reviews.
ISO 28000 Details
What It Is
ISO 28000:2022 is an international standard specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a security management system (SMS) focused on supply chain security. It adopts a risk-based, PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) approach, aligning with modern ISO management systems for holistic security governance.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 cover context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and improvement.
- Emphasizes risk assessment/treatment per ISO 31000, security plans, supplier controls, and integration with ISO 22301.
- No fixed controls; tailored via risk processes.
- Supports certification via ISO 28003 auditing.
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces supply chain risks (theft, sabotage, disruptions).
- Meets contractual, regulatory, insurance needs.
- Enhances resilience, market access, stakeholder trust.
- Drives efficiency through integrated audits.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk assessment, controls, training, audits.
- Scalable for all sizes/industries; 12-18 months typical.
- Involves leadership policy, documented processes, internal/external audits.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | ISO 28000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Supply chain security management system |
| Industry | All industries, manufacturing to services | Logistics, manufacturing, any supply chain involved |
| Nature | De facto methodology, voluntary certification | Formal ISO standard, voluntary certification |
| Testing | Tollgate reviews, project audits, belt exams | Internal audits, management reviews, certification audits |
| Penalties | No formal penalties, project failure risks | No legal penalties, loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and ISO 28000
Six Sigma FAQ
ISO 28000 FAQ
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