A Six Sigma Approach in IT Firm

Abstract

While the Six Sigma body of knowledge has benefited a large number of industries in improving product and process quality (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) and even for developing new products (Design For Six Sigma), some work is still needed for managing it in software industries/companies. Continuity and change are the twin characteristics of any software industry as its products evolve from the traditional life cycle approach to incorporating and managing flexibility from an end-user perspective. Business requirements constantly change till the release of a software product though the features of continuity are evident in the software development process in software industry itself. The paper initially presents an overview of the quality methodologies in the software domain. This is followed by the presentation of structured case study showing the Six Sigma implementation in Wipro Technologies. The research results clear the long held misconception that Six Sigma is not applicable to software domain. The results also throw light on the impact of Six Sigma on software business and the role of Six Sigma in helping organisations attaining business excellence. Little research has been carried out in terms of case study of Six Sigma using real world examples like the one demonstrated in our paper. The case also throws light on the recent developments in the Six Sigma concepts including Wipros Six Sigma Skill base and consulting experience and explains how the company intends to build its expertise and experience - to bring continuous process improvement to the organization.

Keywords: Companies, Process improvement, Six Sigma, Software.

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