What Do You Mean, I Shouldn t Use Six Sigma Jargon?

Overview

As you work through your project, you will have to make a number of presentations about your progress. Your project champion might want to see whether you’re following DMAIC correctly and using the right tools. The process owner may want to know how the process is performing now and what data you have to back that up. The steering committee might want to know what improvements you’re considering and the risks and costs associated with each.

No matter what the audience is looking for, the bottom line is that it’s not enough for you to do a good job on the project itself. You must also be able to convey information about your project in a way that gets you the outcome you’re looking for—whether that be agreement to continue with the project, support for your improvement idea, credit toward certification, etc. How well you present is key to your success.

Key Principles:

The most important three things you can do are:

1. Follow the effective presentation techniques in the checklist (Tool 15-1).

Checklist: Effective Project Presentation

Tool 15-1.

2. Know your audience and adjust the way you speak to their style. (See Chapter 12 for details.)

3. Don’t make the mistake of using Six Sigma jargon when it’s not appropriate. (See explanation on page 128.)