MachSix Methodology Charts the Course

A unique methodology that encompasses the proven principles of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma Manufacturing creates new efficiencies

Invistics MachSix Methodology was developed by taking the proven principles of Lean Manufacturing, broadened to be effective in a much wider range of facilities, and integrating them with the continuous improvement process of Six Sigma Manufacturing.

At its core, a series of steps is undertaken in every Six Sigma Manufacturing project: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control (commonly referred to as DMAIC). Invistics’ unique flow manufacturing methodology applies the steps of Six Sigma to Lean Manufacturing principles that are customized for complex, asset-intensive manufacturing environments.

Invistics MachSix Methodology enables manufacturers to deploy a unique pull-based, demand-driven approach to manufacturing that realigns plants according to product-focused flow paths. Flow paths group products into families that visit similar pieces of equipment, allowing manufacturers to manage thousands of products with no dedicated equipment. The result means you can control inventory and manage to a constant level of work in process without adding capacity or impacting customer service levels.

Invistics Mach Six Methodology is complemented by MachSix Software that embraces and facilitates the change management defined via the steps of the MachSix Methodology:

Define
Working with manufacturing experts from Invistics, customers begin by planning their entire project from scope to goals and objectives. The result is an optimization roadmap that realigns the plant and organizational structures into product flow paths. During this phase, customers gather production data that is used to configure Invistics software to support the realignment and achieve optimal results.

Measure
Next, the team quantifies expected results and sets measurements to track performance. Typical metrics include cycle time information, first pass quality and yield management.

Analyze
Using MachSix software, customers are able to constantly analyze performance and compare it to set goals and objectives. They are also able to adjust a variety of variables, such as batch sizes, lot sizes, inventory replenishment, or work-in-process, to determine the effects on inventory, throughput and customer service. In a word, manufacturing executives are able to “dial-in” specific customer service or inventory levels and adjust variables to achieve particular goals.

Improve and Control
Involves implementing the changes identified in the analyze step. After immediate improvements are implemented, customers can use Invistics software to control variables and implement a long-range plan for sustaining results.