New ISO 17258 – Benchmarking Six Sigma

There’s a new ISO 17258, “Statistical methods – Six Sigma – Basic criteria underlying benchmarking for Six Sigma in organisations.”  You’ll be able to get a copy in paper format, for pdf download or as part of a multi-user online subscription service from Document Center Inc. now.  The standard gives users a methodology to use in Six Sigma programs to compare your organization with “state-of-the-art.”

Having watched quality initiatives since the 1980’s, I have to admit that I consider Six Sigma to be one of the most transformative statistical tools out there.  Originally developed by Motorola, it was standardized with the release of ISO 13053-1 and ISO 13053-2 in 2011.  It relies strongly on verifiable data, clear business and quality goals, and strong leadership and support.

The ISO 17258 is intended to help you understand what benchmarking is, and what data needs to be collected in order to achieve valid benchmarking results.  This may be for internal, external, or supply chain benchmarking.  And it can be used in Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma programs alike.

Why would you find ISO 17258 to be helpful?  Data can be collected on many aspects of a business.  Knowing what data will assist you in reaching your goals is essential to any quality project.  And understanding how to confirm the validity of your measurements and how to do your comparisons can make the difference when reaping the returns of such a program.

What’s covered by the standard?  The body of the standard is divided into 8 clauses:

  1. Scope
  2. Reference documents
  3. Terms and definitions
  4. Symbols and abbreviations
  5. General considerations for benchmarking
  6. Benchmark (criteria and criteria measurements)
  7. Benchmarking (steps in the process)
  8. Interfacing with other types of benchmarking

Another great feature are the Annexes.  The first, Annex A, covers the three dimensions of benchmarking (productivity, quality and cost).  Annex B covers a generic table of criteria.  Annex C is a table of those criteria matched to results.  The balance of the 11 Annexes provide you with information on criteria for specific industries like the food industry, automotive, retail, and so on.  A bibliography with 5 citations completes the publication.

If you’re involved in a Six Sigma effort, you’ll want to get a copy of the new ISO 17258.  Head to the Document Center webstore at www.document-center.com and order your authorized copy.  Or contact our staff by phone (650-591-7600), fax (650-591-7617) or email (info@document-center.com).  We’ve been working with standards since 1982.  Make us your Standards Experts!

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Claudia Bach

Claudia Bach is the President of Document Center Inc. and a world-wide recognized expert on Standards and Standards Distribution. You can connect with her on Google+

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