What is the first step in the DMAIC process of Six Sigma?

The first step in the DMAIC process of Six Sigma is to "Define goals." This phase is crucial as it establishes the foundation for the entire improvement project. During the Define stage, the project's objectives, scope, and resources are clearly outlined, along with identifying the specific problem to be addressed. This ensures that all team members are on the same page regarding what the project aims to achieve and why it is important. Defining goals involves understanding customer needs and expectations, which helps in determining the performance metrics that will be used later in the process.

This initial step sets the direction for the subsequent phases—Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control—making it essential for successful outcomes in process improvement initiatives. By having a well-defined problem and clear objectives from the start, organizations can effectively align their efforts and resources, increase stakeholder engagement, and maximally utilize their data analysis and improvement techniques later in the DMAIC cycle.