Which Lean tool is associated with the Control phase in DMAIC?

The tool associated with the Control phase in the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology is Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). In this phase, the focus is on sustaining improvements and ensuring that processes remain stable and capable over time. TPM is a proactive maintenance strategy that emphasizes the involvement of all employees in maintaining equipment and processes, thereby preventing potential issues before they occur.

By fostering a sense of ownership and accountability among employees regarding equipment care, TPM helps to maintain the improvements achieved during the project and minimizes downtime, ensuring that processes can consistently perform at optimal levels. This added reliability supports the overall goal of the Control phase: to monitor and continuously improve the implemented solutions while maintaining performance.

The other tools mentioned serve different purposes in the Lean framework. For example, 5S is primarily used in the workplace organization to enhance efficiency and reduce waste, while Poka-yoke (error-proofing) aims at preventing errors in processes, and value stream mapping is a tool for visualizing the flow of materials and information in a process. While all these tools are valuable within Lean methodologies, Total Productive Maintenance is uniquely aligned with the goals of the Control phase of DMAIC.