FMEA is a tool embedded within Six Sigma methodology. (FMEA) Failure Mode and Effects Analysis is a technique that enables the identification and prevention of product or process errors before they occur. Identifying and eliminating concerns early incorporates the methodology of Six Sigma.

Six Sigma seeks to improve the quality of the process outputs by identifying and removing the causes of the defects in business and manufacturing processes. There are a set of quality management methods used including statistical control methods. Six Sigma is a team of people within an organization known as Black Belts or Green Belts. These groups of people are experts in these methods and can carry out Six Sigma.

FMEA was evolved in the United States in the late 1940’s but Six Sigma began to emerge as a viable process improvement methodology in the 1990's. FMEA is also a team of usually six to ten people depending on the processes. This team needs to figure out the Severity, Occurrence and Detection of a problem or possible problem in a process. FMEA software can improve profitability and reduce many associated cost and the possibility of the same kind of failure in the future. Properly executed, FMEA can assist in improving overall satisfaction and safety levels. It is suggested however to have team members that have knowledge about the processes. This should include facilitators with skills in rapid decision making. Understanding how to use the right process or facilitation tool at the right time can help providers move quality up, costs down and variability out. It is never too late to start using an FMEA or Six Sigma software solution!