Which phases are included in the DMAIC cycle of Six Sigma?

The DMAIC cycle is a core process in Six Sigma that guides improvement projects by following a structured approach. The phases included in this cycle are Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control.

In the Define phase, the project's goals and customer deliverables are established, focusing on identifying the problem or opportunity for improvement. The Measure phase involves collecting data to understand the current performance or baseline metrics of the process in question. During the Analyze phase, the data collected is scrutinized to identify root causes of defects and to understand the underlying issues affecting performance.

The Improve phase is where solutions are developed and implemented to address the root causes identified earlier, leading to enhancements in the process. Finally, the Control phase aims to ensure that the improvements are sustained over time by establishing monitoring systems and controls.

This systematic approach is essential because it provides a framework for problem-solving using data and analysis, which is the foundation of Six Sigma methodology. The other options presented include incorrect terminologies or phases that do not align with the recognized DMAIC framework. For instance, terms like "Assess," "Implement," or "Innovate" do not correctly correspond to the standard nomenclature of the DMAIC process.