Overview
ISO 13053-2:2011 - Quantitative methods in process improvement - Six Sigma - Part 2: Tools and techniques specifies the practical tools and techniques to be used throughout the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) approach. Part 2 complements the generic DMAIC methodology set out in ISO 13053‑1 and is illustrated by factsheets. The standard is sector‑neutral and applicable to organizations of any size seeking measurable process improvement and competitive advantage using Six Sigma, statistical methods and structured problem solving.
Key topics and technical coverage
ISO 13053‑2:2011 provides definitions, symbols and a structured DMAIC process sequence, with factsheets that describe tools and techniques for each phase. Key technical topics include:
- DMAIC phase guidance: objectives and typical steps for Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control.
- Measurement and statistics: measurement system analysis (MSA), data collection plans, sample size determination, normality testing, descriptive statistics, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.
- Root cause and prioritization tools: cause-and-effect (Ishikawa) diagrams, Pareto analysis, affinity diagrams, brainstorming, prioritization matrices.
- Process definition and mapping: SIPOC, process mapping, value stream analysis (VSM), service delivery modelling.
- Design and experimentation: design of experiments (DOE), regression and correlation, reliability analysis.
- Risk and failure assessment: Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), waste analysis.
- Implementation and control: control charts, monitoring/control plans, project charters, Gantt charts, gate reviews, RACI matrices, ROI and cost tracking.
- Quality deployment tools: CTQ tree diagrams, Kano model, House of Quality (QFD).
The standard includes a comprehensive Annex of factsheets (e.g., ROI, CTQ, FMEA, DOE, control charts) that practitioners can use as quick references.
Practical applications and users
ISO 13053‑2:2011 is designed for practical application across manufacturing, services, healthcare, finance, IT and public sector processes. Typical uses:
- Structuring Six Sigma projects and DMAIC teams.
- Selecting and applying the right statistical tools (MSA, DOE, hypothesis testing).
- Establishing measurement systems, sampling plans and control strategies.
- Performing root-cause analysis, risk assessment (FMEA) and solution design.
- Monitoring results with control charts and scorecards to sustain improvements.
Who will use it:
- Quality managers, Six Sigma Black/Green Belts, process improvement professionals.
- Operational leaders, project sponsors and continuous improvement teams.
- Consultants and trainers implementing organizational Six Sigma programs.
Related standards
ISO 13053‑2:2011 is a practical, factsheet‑driven resource for organizations seeking to apply Six Sigma tools and techniques consistently and effectively.