Question

The Goal:

a. What is the difference between “activation” and “utilization” of a resource”

b. What are the five steps of the improvement cycle?

c. What is meant by “statistical fluctuation” and “dependent events”? Give an example of a game or demonstration you could use to illustrate the impact of these terms.

Answer 1

a. Utilizing a resource refers to the using of the optimum resources so that the system moves towards the established goal. On the other hand, activation is using the resources irrespective of the fact if there is any benefit from the output or not.

b. The five steps of an improvement cycle are abbreviated as DMAIC. DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control/Continue to Improve.

c. Statistical fluctuation refers to the concept that all processes have a certain degree of inherent variability. For example, variability occurs when a dice is rolled. On the other hand, dependant events refer to the concept that a process must take place before another process could begin. For example, assembling takes place before packaging.