Aplicación de Six Sigma para la mejora del proceso de cambio de malla curricular en una Institución de Educación Superior

Six Sigma is a quality management methodology used to improve efficiency and reduce defects in business processes. Its philosophy is based on the idea that processes can be systematically measured, analyzed, and improved to reduce variability and achieve high levels of quality in the production of goods or services. The methodology can be applied to any type of process and organization. This article deals with the application of Six Sigma in the process of curriculum change required by university students carried out by research professors of the Industrial Engineering carrier of the Salesian Polytechnic University, Guayaquil, to optimize response times in the management of requests submitted by the students at the beginning of the semester. Currently, the process takes an average of 56 days, and this affects the retention of the students in the institution. The research was field-based, descriptive, and had a quantitative approach based on variables of quantification and measurement. The methodology applied adapted the DMAIC model, which stands for define, measure, analyze, improve and control, to the needs and the procedures of the career, different statistical and quality tools were used at each stage of the model, reducing the process to 45 days, and obtaining an approximate annual savings of US$ 15,634.00. The sequence of the process was first to diagnose the initial situation for which statistical data of the students who requested the change of mesh was used, then, the form of measurement was determined using techniques and tools that helped to identify causes for the subsequent analysis of the problems detected, in addition, to the achieve strategic objectives, we worked with performance metrics. Finally, an action plan was drawn up that established the measures to reduce waiting times and costs, the necessary activities, and technological support that provided quality, solution, and control to the problems raised in period 62.