subject: Constructive Criticism Is Ok For Improvement Teams, Just Nothing More [print this page] In order to comprehend why some kinds of disagreement are acceptable on teams at work, you have to realize how Six Sigma formed its teams and its methods. Six Sigma's goal is to come up with important changes that will improve the overall quality of a business. We all know that a team is comprised of many different people, and each person should have a say in that team's decisions. Because of this, every team member should be encouraged to speak up, even if others will disagree with that person.
This type of environment is necessary to ensure that all ideas are brought up. If someone hesitates to speak, it could be that person's idea that was the best one out of the entire group. Teams should also realize that after someone shares an idea, that idea now belongs to the whole group, not just the person who mentioned it. The conversations that go on after this should tie directly into the subject at-hand and should not reflect the individuals within the team.
This can reduce the feelings of rejection and intimidation that a member may experience once the pros and cons are debated. Even a rejected idea may spark a thought from another member that might not have otherwise occurred. This is where the team as a whole becomes greater than the sum total of its parts. Consequently, no contribution to team dynamics should be viewed as a failure.
To prevent dissension, disagreement should actually be encouraged. Every member should be free to speak his or her mind. Otherwise, dissension may occur because of the feeling that only the opinions of one or two members matters. Fear of conflict can actually hinder success. On the contrary, healthy debate within a group is important in reaching consensus, which can only occur after any reservations on the part of one or more members have been overcome. This does not necessarily mean that each member is in total agreement with everything that has been said or done, but that their concerns have been resolved to the point that they can support and take ownership in the recommendations of the group.
The truth is that the basic principles of Six Sigma are very easy to implement and do produce results. While many people are initially overwhelmed by the Six Sigma process and terminology the principles are actually very basic.
It makes such simple sense that this process that has been proven so effective in helping businesses to achieve the results that they are seeking, will also work to help you pin down the problems in your personal life to help you achieve those results that you have only dreamed possible. Whether you are in a business that is looking for results or are seeking a change in your personal life, you can find everything that you want merely by applying the Six Sigma principles to your life.
