The acronym DMAIC stands for which sequence?

• A. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control
• B. Define, Analyze, Measure, Improve, Control
• C. Define, Measure, Analyze, Control, Improve
• D. Define, Measure, Improve, Analyze, Control

Answer: (B)

DMAIC is a five-phase framework used in Six Sigma for systematic process improvement. It follows a precise order to ensure problems are understood and addressed with data. Define the problem and project goals, scope, and stakeholders. Then Measure the current process to establish a baseline and gather data on performance. Next, Analyze the data to identify the root causes of variation or inefficiency. After understanding the causes, Improve by designing and testing solutions to address them and verify that the changes lead to real gains. Finally, Control the new process by implementing monitoring and standard operating procedures to sustain the improvements over time.

Sticking to this sequence matters because you need solid data before analyzing causes, you need to know what you’re trying to improve before designing solutions, and you must have mechanisms to maintain the gains after making changes.