Which quality improvement process is aimed at identifying and removing causes of defects?

• A. Six Sigma
• B. Lean
• C. Kaizen
• D. Total Quality Management

Answer: (A)

Structured, data-driven problem solving that targets root causes of defects and removes them is what this concept is about. Six Sigma uses a defined path—Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control—to pinpoint where a process goes wrong, quantify the problem with data, identify the true root causes, implement corrective changes, and put controls in place to keep the gains. Because it emphasizes uncovering the underlying sources of defects and verifying improvements with rigorous analysis, it’s the best fit for reducing or eliminating defects rather than merely addressing symptoms. Tools like cause-and-effect diagrams, Pareto charts, and control charts help reveal which factors truly drive variation and defects, guiding focused improvements that lower defect rates toward near-perfection. Other approaches may emphasize waste reduction, ongoing incremental improvements, or broader quality culture, but they don’t center on identifying and removing defect causes through a data-driven, statistical framework in the same targeted way.