Using Shainin DOE for Six Sigma: an Indian case study

Shainin design of experiments (DOE) offers a powerful and effective experimental design approach for solving the chronic quality problems that plague manufacturers worldwide. However, the academic literature still contains a few empirical studies on the use of non-statistical Shainin DOE tools to simplify the quality improvement initiatives. In order to overcome this deficiency, this case describes framework for incorporating Shainin experimental design within Six Sigma define-measure-analyse-improve-control and tests its effectiveness in an Indian automotive gear manufacturing unit. Shainin tools such as Paired Comparison, Product/Process search, Concentration chart, B vs. C analysis, Pre-control chart were employed to analyse, improve and control the gear manufacturing process. The study provides stimulus for the wider application of Shainin experimental design approach for industrial experimentation.