Six Sigma
Data-driven methodology for defect reduction and variation control
ISO 37001
International standard for anti-bribery management systems
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC and defect reduction across industries, while ISO 37001 establishes anti-bribery systems with risk controls and audits. Companies adopt Six Sigma for efficiency gains; ISO 37001 for compliance and legal protection.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma process improvement
Key Features
- Structured DMAIC methodology for existing processes
- Belt hierarchy of trained practitioners and champions
- Data-driven statistical root cause analysis
- Tollgate reviews and governance controls
- 3.4 defects per million opportunities benchmark
ISO 37001
ISO 37001:2025 Anti-bribery management systems
Key Features
- Risk-based bribery risk assessment
- Third-party due diligence requirements
- Leadership commitment and compliance function
- Financial and non-financial controls
- PDCA continual improvement cycle
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 process improvement through variation reduction and defect prevention. It employs a data-driven, statistical approach via DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) for existing processes and DMADV for new designs, targeting 3.4 defects per million opportunities.
Key Components
- DMAIC/DMADV structured phases with tollgates and deliverables like charters, SIPOC, MSA, FMEA, control plans.
- **Belt systemChampions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
- Statistical tools (SPC, DOE, hypothesis testing), governance linking to strategy.
- Certification via bodies like ASQ (experience, projects, exams); no single global authority.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives financial savings (e.g., GE $1B+), customer satisfaction, risk reduction. Voluntary but strategic for quality, compliance integration (ISO 9001), competitive edge in manufacturing, healthcare, finance. Builds data culture, stakeholder trust.
Implementation Overview
Phased: executive alignment, training, project portfolio, DMAIC execution, sustainment. Applies enterprise-wide; 12-18 months typical. Involves leadership sponsorship, belt training, audits; ASQ-style certification optional.
ISO 37001 Details
What It Is
ISO 37001 is the international standard for Anti-Bribery Management Systems (ABMS), a certifiable framework published in 2016 and revised in 2025. It provides requirements to prevent, detect, and respond to bribery risks across organizations. The risk-based approach follows the ISO Harmonized Structure (HS) and PDCA cycle, applicable to public, private, and non-profit entities of any size.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 cover context, leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, and improvement.
- Core elements: anti-bribery policy, risk assessments, due diligence, financial/non-financial controls, training, reporting, audits.
- Built on proportionality to bribery risks; optional third-party certification with 3-year cycles and surveillance audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates legal risks (e.g., FCPA, UK Bribery Act) via evidentiary 'reasonable steps'.
- Enhances reputation, stakeholder trust, ESG alignment, and operational efficiencies (up to 15% compliance cost reduction).
- Enables market access, tender qualifications, and cultural transformation.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk assessment, control design, training, monitoring, certification.
- Scalable for SMEs to multinationals; integrates with ISO 9001/27001; global applicability.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | ISO 37001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Anti-bribery prevention, detection, response management |
| Industry | All industries, manufacturing to services worldwide | All sectors, high-risk in regulated/global operations |
| Nature | Voluntary methodology, certification via bodies like ASQ | Certifiable management system standard, voluntary |
| Testing | Tollgate reviews, internal audits, belt certifications | Internal audits, management reviews, third-party certification |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, program failure or certification loss | No direct penalties, aids legal defense, certification withdrawal |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and ISO 37001
Six Sigma FAQ
ISO 37001 FAQ
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