Six Sigma
Data-driven methodology reducing defects to 3.4 DPMO
WCAG
Global standard for web content accessibility.
Quick Verdict
Six Sigma drives process excellence through DMAIC and belts for quality gains across industries, while WCAG ensures web accessibility via POUR principles and success criteria. Companies adopt Six Sigma for cost savings and efficiency; WCAG for legal compliance and inclusive digital experiences.
Six Sigma
ISO 13053:2011 Six Sigma process improvement
Key Features
- DMAIC structured methodology for process improvement
- Belt hierarchy with executive Champions and sponsors
- Data-driven statistical root cause verification
- 3.4 DPMO benchmark with sigma levels
- Tollgate governance and control plans sustainment
WCAG
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2)
Key Features
- POUR principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust
- Testable success criteria at A/AA/AAA levels
- Technology-agnostic, backward-compatible versions
- Conformance for full pages and processes
- Informative techniques and documented failures
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 management framework and methodology, anchored by ISO 13053:2011, focused on process improvement through variation reduction and defect prevention. It employs a data-driven approach targeting 3.4 defects per million opportunities (DPMO), using DMAIC for existing processes and DMADV for new designs.
Key Components
- **DMAIC phasesDefine (charter, VOC), Measure (MSA, baseline), Analyze (root causes), Improve (pilots, FMEA), Control (SPC, plans).
- **RolesBelts (White to Master Black Belt), Champions, Sponsors.
- **ToolsStatistical analysis, Gage R&R, DOE, control charts.
- Certification via bodies like ASQ (experience, projects, exams); no single global authority.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives financial savings (e.g., Motorola $17B), 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
Enterprise deployment via phases: alignment, training, projects, sustainment. Applies to all sizes/industries; 4-6 month projects, full rollout 12+ months. Requires leadership, tollgates; audits via SPC, reviews.
WCAG Details
What It Is
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 is the W3C's internationally recognized framework for web accessibility. It provides technology-agnostic, testable requirements to make web content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for people with disabilities. Structured as a layered model: principles, guidelines, success criteria.
Key Components
- **POUR principlesPerceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.
- 13 guidelines with ~90 success criteria at Levels A, AA, AAA.
- Informative techniques, failures, and understanding documents.
- Conformance requires full pages, complete processes, accessibility-supported tech, non-interference.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets legal benchmarks (ADA, Section 508, EN 301 549).
- Reduces litigation risk, enhances UX/market reach.
- Supports procurement, builds stakeholder trust.
- Improves SEO, conversion, reduces support costs.
Implementation Overview
Phased: governance/policy, assessment, remediation via design systems/CI tools, training, audits/user testing. Applies to all digital orgs; AA common target. No formal certification; self/audit claims with evidence.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Six Sigma | WCAG |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement, defect reduction, variation control | Web content accessibility for disabilities |
| Industry | All industries, manufacturing to services globally | Digital/web content across all sectors |
| Nature | Voluntary methodology and certification framework | Voluntary W3C guidelines, legally referenced |
| Testing | DMAIC projects, statistical validation, tollgates | Automated scans, manual audits, user testing |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, certification loss only | Litigation fines, regulatory enforcement |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Six Sigma and WCAG
Six Sigma FAQ
WCAG FAQ
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