Quality Measurement Research Paper Healthcare leaders in the United States strive for excellence in all areas of their organization. Hospital leaders invest time and capital purchasing performance improvement tools that ensure organizational quality standards are met. The following paragraphs will summarize, evaluate and exemplify how the following quality measurement methods can improve organizational effectiveness: Six Sigma and Lean methodologies. Six Sigma Six Sigma is a powerful process improvement tool originally developed as a business strategy and eventually the benefits of Sig Sigma were recognized by the healthcare industry. Born as a business strategy, the main goal of Six Sigma is to eliminate waste and increase financial stability through monitoring and improving processes (Hughes, 2008). Furthermore, Six Sigma is a methodical, data-driven strategy that focuses on eliminating defects in all processes of an organization. The data-driven approach allows the analysis of statistical data to determine process performance. The goal of Six Sigma is to produce fewer than 3.4 defects per million opportunities. Six Sigma recognizes a defect as anything generated outside of customer specifications. Overall, the main intent of Six Sigma is to provide defect-free end products by improving the process through the use of process improvement strategies. To achieve the objectives of Six Sigma the following methods are used: DMAIC and DMADA ("Six Sigma", 2011). Six Sigma methodology evaluates and analyzes existing processes and develops new processes through the use of DMAIC and DMADA. DMAIC is an acronym that stands for Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Cont...... middle of paper ......d Lean Methodologies are quality measures capable of improving organizational effectiveness by eliminating waste, errors and defects in the current system. References Brief history of Lean. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.lean.org/WhatsLean/History.cfmHughes, R. G. (2008). Tools and strategies for improving quality and patient safety. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2682/Lloyd, D.H., & Holsenback, J.E. (2006). The use of Six Sigma in healthcare operations: Application and opportunities. AHCMJ, 2, 41-48.Majdi, C. (n.d.). Lean methodology in improving the quality of healthcare. Retrieved from http://transitionconsultants.com/articles/19-lean-methodology-in-health-care-quality-improvementSix Sigma for Process Improvement. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.exforsys.com/career-center/process-management/six-sigma-for-process-improvement.html