The nomogram is a computational aid which consists of two or more scales which are drawn and arranged so that results of calculations may be found by the linear connection points.  The graph usually contains three parallel scales graduated for different variables so that when a straight line connects each value of any two, that value can be read directly from the third at the point of intersection.

Also Called: Alignment Chart

  Bias is a term frequently used in forecasting and six sigma.  Bias is the term used when a consistent deviation occurs from the mean/average.  

  Statistical process control is the application of statistical techniques to monitor and adjust a process so that the process can perform at its full potential.  

  A standard is a rule, example or guideline of how to perform an activity correctly.  Standards should be the best known way of performing, building or producing a product, task, process or service.  All standards should set clear expectations.

  The core values of an organization are the principles, fundamental beliefs and ethical guideposts that serve as guidelines for the organizations behaviors.

  A Non-Value added activity is any activity that adds no value to the product, service or information.  Non-value added activities typically have three characteristics that are fairly simple to identify.   

  Pareto’s concept suggests that most effects come from relatively few causes.  To be even more specific Pareto’s concept suggests that 80% of effects are directly related to 20% of causes.  The principle is often used in the narrowing down of choices and focusing in on priorities.  To Learn more about Pareto's Concept visit our recent post in our blog entitled Listen to the Gemba, "The Pareto Chart."  You can also learn more about the Pareto Chart and learn how to build your own in our Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course.

  Balance in terms of lean six sigma refers to the even distribution of work elements throughout an organization.  A state of balance would be an organization that levels distribution of "hands" performing work and keeps equal or level working times amongst the different types of operations found within the organization.  

See also: Heijunka

  The seven management and planning tools are often referred to as the seven new tools.  This set of tools was developed, tested and used by the Japanese Scientists and Engineers (JUSE).  The seven new tools are:

  The longitudinal scope refers to the “length” of a projects process.  The most common method of defining the longitudinal scope is from “starting point to ending point.”

  The output is the result of a process being applied to an input.  It can be in the form of energy, work, goods, services or activities.  The output is the result whether desired or undesired the output is simply the result of a process or function being applied to the input.  Y=F(X) + ε, the Y is the output.