Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Practice Exam

What concept in Six Sigma refers to the deviation from a target value?

1. Variation

2. Defect

3. Capability

4. Specification

The correct answer is: Variation

The concept in Six Sigma that refers to the deviation from a target value is variation. Variation is a fundamental aspect of quality control, as it encompasses any changes or fluctuations in a process that lead to different outcomes. In Six Sigma terminology, it is critical to understand variation because it directly affects the performance and reliability of processes. When a process is not stable and consistently deviates from the target value, it may lead to suboptimal outcomes, impacting customer satisfaction and organizational effectiveness. In contrast, the other terms have distinct meanings within the framework of Six Sigma. Defect refers to a failure to meet a specific requirement or standard, which is a particular instance of undesirable variation. Capability refers to the ability of a process to produce outcomes within specified limits or tolerances, and it looks at how well a process can perform within the existing variation. Specification pertains to the defined limits or criteria for performance and quality that a process or product should meet. Understanding variation as the overarching concept allows practitioners to identify, analyze, and reduce unwanted fluctuations, ultimately steering closer to the target values.