Design for Six Sigma: A Review of the Definitions, Objectives, Activities, and Tools

This paper presents a theoretical review of the definitions, objectives, activities, and tools applied in the Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) methodology. It also proposes a theoretical framework that provides a simplified and generic guide, which is not easily found in the scientific literature. The methodology used consists of 3 phases: (a) Systemic review, structured to search and select references on DFSS after 2009; (b) Selection of specific books on DFSS that were cited in the studies found in the systematic review (step “a”); (c) Application of the Bibliometrix scientific mapping tool. Seventeen definitions and objectives of DFSS were enumerated; 9 sets of DFSS structuring phases were observed; a list with 54 main activities and 72 tools that can be applied in DFSS was generated. This proposal aims to bring the DFSS methodology closer to the practical actions of engineering management.