7.5 Define Tollgate Review

Each of the five DMAIC phases ends with reviewing the work to determine whether the team has performed the activities designated for that phase and achieved the objectives specified. This occasion is where the team reviews what they have learned in the Define phase, and leaders make a “go–no go” decision. If the team has completed all steps successfully, you will receive the sign-off to continue to the next phase. Otherwise, if any step is incomplete or unsatisfactory, you and your team will need to go back and address problematic or deficient areas.

In terms of “go–no go,” the crucial points include whether the anticipated benefits still hold and justify the project's resources to continue. At this stage, it is timely to question whether the focus of the project needs adjustment. The deliverables of the Define phase include the following:

• Project statement

• Project charter

• SIPOC

• Voice of the Customer Analysis

• Definition of CTQ