Six sigma and DMAIC: A framework for data-driven improvement in higher education

This study examines the application of Six Sigma and DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) for data-driven decision making in higher education. The framework is widely used in industry but practiced less in colleges and universities for affecting student success. Institutions face increasing pressure to improve retention and graduation rates of students. The challenge for leaders is how to convert data inputs and insights into initiatives that will impact performance. This paper reports on experience using Six Sigma and DMAIC at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW), Americus, GA, a regional university of more than 4000 students, with programs in Business, Education, Liberal Arts, and Nursing. The exercise specifically addresses the management question – Why do students leave before graduating? The investigation uses data collected on GSW student populations during the period Fall 2014 to Fall 2023 and applies Six Sigma and DMAIC tools to develop a data-driven roadmap for improvement. The study suggests that Six Sigma and the DMAIC approach are applicable to issues in higher education. The conclusion is that this framework can be used to examine processes and implement changes for improvement. The findings have implications for institutions of higher education that seek to use data to drive actions for student success.