What’s the best way to predict the future? Analyze the past. For years, employers have asked the question “What if…?” for any number of scenarios. What if we changed this production line mechanism? What if we decrease production waste? These are a just a few, hypothetical questions asked on a regular basis. Since the late 1980’s, Six Sigma has presented itself more than just a business quality management tool. Additionally, it represents a way to conduct analysis on any number of parts throughout a production cycle. For those who become certified within any level of Six Sigma, Simulation Modeling is a fundamental topic, surely to be discussed.
Simulation Modeling Overview
Simulation Modeling is defined as a customized model that simulates a real-life process. This process may be something such as an assembly line or an automated construction service. The model integrates input variables and operating parameters from the actual business process. Likewise, this allows for the user to manipulate and number of factors and see how they will affect the over simulation. Where Six Sigma comes into play is the desire to use the simulation model. The philosophy behind Six Sigma is to constantly improve a business process, increasing efficiency, raising the standard of quality, and deterring defects. Simulation Modeling provides an excellent insight to what changes you could and should not make within your corporation.
Benefits
Furthermore, Simulation Modeling is best when visualizing a complex, dynamic process. A working model of a complex process allows you to visualize parts and variables you would otherwise not notice. Additionally, this is ideal when discussing real-time reactions to minor (or major) changes to a process. Typically, Simulation Models display results quickly, allowing you to demonstrate a process change as it happens. Finally, it allows you to follow your project goal closely. For some, the aim of implementing Six Sigma is to achieve one specific goal, i.e. increasing production line speed by 20%. With Simulation Modeling, your project goal is the center of your variable manipulations. As you alter certain variables within a process, you’re provided with immediate results. When meeting with management, investors, or other project leaders, Simulation Modeling offers an organized, easy to understand visualization of your process, your goal, and how it can be achieved.
Risks
However, Simulation Modeling does have risks. For example, if you become overly depended on the model, you may lose your focus on your project goal. Suddenly, you begin to alter other variables that are independent of your project, which can impact your overall results. Additionally, it is easy to overuse a Simulation Model, which can form unrealistic expectations for your process. While something happens in a model, it is not a guarantee to happen in real-life. This expectation for a process to follow a simulation eye to eye can impact your overall analysis of the project and deter you from achieving your set goal.
No responses / comments so far.