What does SIPOC stand for in process improvement?

SIPOC is a fundamental tool used in process improvement that encapsulates the high-level view of a process. The acronym stands for Suppliers, Inputs, Processes, Outputs, and Customers.

In this context, "Suppliers" refer to the sources that provide the necessary inputs for the process. "Inputs" are the resources, materials, and information required to execute the process. "Processes" describe the sequence of activities or steps that transform inputs into outputs. "Outputs" are the finished products or services generated by the process, and "Customers" are the recipients of the outputs, who can be internal or external to the organization.

By employing the SIPOC model, teams can gain a clear and concise overview of a process, helping to identify key components and their relationships. This can greatly enhance understanding and communication during process mapping and improvement initiatives, thus facilitating structured and effective quality management practices.