Six Sigma : A Case Study Approach Using Minitab

This book introduces the reader to Six Sigma, a problem-solving technique for reducing defects and variation in processes. The author uses DMAIC phases (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) and a data-centric approach, leveraging applied statistics with Minitab^®.  Readers are enabled to solve novel problems where there isn’t an apparent root cause or solution identified. The author walks readers through an (imaginary) case study, explaining both the DMAIC approach and how to use Minitab in a practical way. The presentation includes data sets and instructions on how to analyze data in the context of Six Sigma using Minitab. 

Timothy D. Blackburn is a Summa Cum Laude graduate from the William States Lee College of Engineering (UNC-Charlotte) and holds an MBA from the Kenan-Flagler School of Business (UNC-Chapel Hill).  He also received a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from The George Washington University (GWU).

He is a licensed Professional Engineer in multiple states and holds a Master Blackbelt in Six Sigma. Currently, he is a Professorial Lecturer in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering (EMSE) at The George Washington University where he teaches multiple Master’s and Doctoral level courses and advises doctoral students in their research phase. He is frequently a committee member for Dissertation and Praxis defenses. Tim is widely published in peer reviewed journals and has spoken at professional conferences. He also works in the pharmaceutical industry providing internal consulting in many of the areas covered in this book.  Contents in the book benefit from over 30years of experience in both industry and academia.

Tim’s affiliations (current or previous) include the Tau Alpha Pi and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Societies for academic achievement, the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineers (ISPE), American Society for Quality (ASQ), Pharma Engineering Roundtable, International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), International Foundation Process Analytical Chemistry (IFPAC), and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES).