Control Plan: Are You Really in Control?

Prepare for Take Off

Control plans. They are crucial to the success of any operation or business venture. The more technical or complex the situation, the more crucial a control plan is to achieve the desired results. The perfect example of control plans exist in the aviation industry. From the gate to flight operations and back to the gate, pilots and aircraft operate in a state of absolute control. The control excised ensure a successful and desire outcome for the airline and the passenger. Pilots take charge of the aircraft prior to the flight and accept a flight plan or script for the flight, which covers every aspect of the operation. Departure time, taxi plan, take off runway, speeds, altitudes, routes to the destination, arrival runway and arrival gate are all outlined. This level of control assures a methodical and controlled operation from beginning to end. The pilots responsibility to execute the plan with precision to achieve the desired outcomes. Along the way, there will be variables and unpredictable variations. The pilot is then responsible to meet those variances safely and then bring the operation back into harmony with the plan to achieve the desired outcome.

Flying High With a Control Plan

A Six Sigma control plan is no different than a flight plan for the airlines. It is a written summary of the process that lays out in detail the steps to be taken to maintain a process or a device operating at the current level of performance. During the flight, a Six Sigma professional is just like a pilot, they engage tools that ensure performance that is in harmony with a control plan. Just like the pilot, a Six Sigma professionals performance can be monitored, checked and verified at any point in the plan to ensure the plan is in effect. A few sample elements of a control plan could include chart type, champion, location, and measurement methods.

When variances and unexpected deviations occur, the Six Sigma professional can manipulate and execute the use of tools to bring the operation back into harmony with the plan. The entire process is clearly defined, transparent and logical from beginning to end.

Cleared to Land

When properly prepared and executed, a control plan brings clarity and understanding to any operation. It demands attention and requires professionals to execute their practice in a precious manner, while properly handling unexpected deviation. The operation will truly achieve the desired results when it is given proper attention and control. When the flight arrives at the gate and the engines shut down, a Six Sigma professional will have achieved the best recognition possible … Mission Accomplished!