Standards Comparison

    Six Sigma

    Voluntary
    1986

    Data-driven framework for process variation reduction

    VS

    TISAX

    Mandatory
    2017

    Automotive standard for information security assessment exchange

    Quick Verdict

    Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC across industries, while TISAX ensures automotive information security via audited controls. Companies adopt Six Sigma for cost savings and quality; TISAX for supply chain contracts and OEM trust.

    Process Improvement

    Six Sigma

    ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma standard

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    Key Features

    • DMAIC structured methodology for process improvement
    • Professional belt hierarchy and roles
    • Data-driven statistical analysis and MSA
    • 3.4 DPMO benchmark for defect reduction
    • Tollgate governance with executive Champions
    Cybersecurity

    TISAX

    Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    Key Features

    • Secure exchange of assessments via ENX portal
    • Risk-based levels: AL1 self to AL3 on-site audits
    • Prototype protection for parts, vehicles, and events
    • VDA ISA catalog with 70+ automotive controls
    • Reduces duplicate audits across OEM supply chains

    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 management framework and methodology for quantitative process improvement. It focuses on reducing variation, preventing defects, and driving data-based decisions across industries. Core approach uses DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) for existing processes and DMADV for new designs, targeting 3.4 defects per million opportunities (DPMO) after 1.5σ shift.

    Key Components

    • DMAIC/DMADV phases with tollgates and deliverables (charters, SIPOC, FMEA, control plans).
    • **Belt hierarchyChampions, Master Black Belts, Black/Green Belts.
    • Statistical tools: MSA (Gage R&R), hypothesis testing, DOE, SPC.
    • Governance model linking projects to strategy; certification via ASQ/IASSC (experience, exams, projects).

    Why Organizations Use It

    Delivers financial savings (e.g., Motorola $17B, GE $1B+), quality gains, customer satisfaction. Voluntary but strategic for risk reduction, compliance integration (ISO 9001), competitive edge. Builds data culture, stakeholder trust.

    Implementation Overview

    Phased rollout: executive alignment, training, project portfolio, DMAIC execution, sustainment audits. Applies to all sizes/industries; 4-6 month projects, ongoing program. No mandatory certification; ASQ CSSBB benchmark.

    TISAX Details

    What It Is

    TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a standardized assessment framework developed by the ENX Association based on the VDA ISA catalog (version 5.0.4). It verifies organizations' ability to protect sensitive automotive data like IP, prototypes, and personal information in global supply chains. Rooted in a risk-based approach, it emphasizes the CIA triad with three maturity levels: Basic, Significant, Very High.

    Key Components

    • Over 70 controls across 7 groups: policy, organization, personnel, physical security, access control, cryptography, operations.
    • Builds on ISO 27001 with automotive-specific extensions like prototype protection.
    • Assessment levels (AL1 self-assessment, AL2 remote, AL3 on-site) leading to 3-year labels shared via ENX portal.

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Contractual mandates from OEMs (e.g., BMW, Volkswagen) prevent revenue loss.
    • Reduces duplicate audits by 70-90%, cuts costs, enables market access.
    • Mitigates cyber risks, boosts resilience, enhances trust and ESG appeal.

    Implementation Overview

    Phased rollout (6-18 months): gap analysis, control remediation, tabletop exercises, accredited audits. Scalable for SMEs to multinationals in automotive ecosystem globally.

    Key Differences

    Scope

    Six Sigma
    Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control
    TISAX
    Information security, prototype protection, supply chain trust

    Industry

    Six Sigma
    All industries worldwide, any size
    TISAX
    Automotive supply chain, primarily Europe

    Nature

    Six Sigma
    Voluntary methodology, no certification body
    TISAX
    Industry assessment scheme, contractual requirement

    Testing

    Six Sigma
    DMAIC projects, tollgates, internal governance
    TISAX
    AL1-3 audits by accredited providers, 3-year validity

    Penalties

    Six Sigma
    No penalties, project failure risks
    TISAX
    Contract loss, OEM exclusion, no legal fines

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about Six Sigma and TISAX

    Six Sigma FAQ

    TISAX FAQ

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