Title: Quality problem solving in the jewellery industry - the Six Sigma way

Authors: Akansha; Harshit Kanchan; Monish Gupta; Sumit Shandilya; Jaskiran Arora

Addresses: School of Management, BML Munjal University, 67, NH 48, Kapriwas, Haryana – 122413, India ' School of Management, BML Munjal University, 67, NH 48, Kapriwas, Haryana – 122413, India ' School of Management, BML Munjal University, 67, NH 48, Kapriwas, Haryana – 122413, India ' QGS Group, H-13, Kirti Nagar, New Delhi, India; Centre for Operation Excellence, School of Management, BML Munjal University, 67, NH 48, Kapriwas, Haryana – 122413, India ' School of Management, BML Munjal University, 67, NH 48, Kapriwas, Haryana – 122413, India

Abstract: This paper describes a green belt Six Sigma project aimed at reducing the issues during metal jewellery fabrication. The project utilised the DMAIC methodology and a variety of tools and techniques, including Pareto analysis, process mapping, process capability analysis, and design of experiments, to systematically identify and address the root causes of the issues. The project was successful in achieving its objectives, resulting in significant improvements in the metal jewellery fabrication process. The defect rate was reduced, leading to cost savings and improved customer satisfaction. The process capability was also improved, with a reduction in process variability and an increase in process efficiency. The paper highlights the importance of using a data-driven approach to problem-solving, the application of various Six Sigma tools and techniques in each phase of the DMAIC methodology, and the involvement of cross-functional teams and stakeholders throughout the process.

Keywords: statistical process control; Six Sigma; problem solving; design of experiments; DoE; jewellery industry.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPQM.2025.144899

International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, 2025 Vol.44 No.3, pp.304 - 330

Received: 04 May 2023
Accepted: 07 May 2023
Published online: 07 Mar 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article