SIPOC Model, short for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers, is a method for mapping and improving processes.
It is used in the Six Sigma methodology during the ‘Measure’ stage to identify relevant factors for process improvement before starting a project.
A SIPOC diagram is a visual tool that helps teams understand the entire process, from start to finish, and identify areas where issues may occur.
The diagram includes information about the suppliers, inputs, process functions, outputs, and customers, and can be used to troubleshoot problems and develop strategies for improvement.
Teams, higher management, and stakeholders can all benefit from using a SIPOC table or diagram.
Key Component of SIPOC Model
The SIPOC model, which stands for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers, is a method used to map and improve processes by describing inputs and outputs with a SIPOC diagram.
This model is widely used in both the service and manufacturing industries, but the approach to implementing it may vary.
In the service industry, the COPIS methodology is often used, where customers come first, followed by outputs, process, inputs, and suppliers.
This approach is used because in the service sector, such as restaurants, customers place their requirements first, and then they receive the output (food), which is facilitated by the process, inputs, and suppliers.
On the other hand, in the manufacturing industry, the POCIS approach is more common, where process and outputs are the first two steps that generate requirements for customers, supported by inputs and suppliers.
Regardless of the approach used, the key components of the SIPOC model, namely suppliers, inputs, process, outputs, and customers, remain the same.
This model offers a visual tool for teams, higher management, and stakeholders to troubleshoot process-related issues and develop appropriate strategies for improvements.
Why Do We Need The SIPOC Model
The SIPOC model is a crucial tool for enhancing business processes. It visually portrays all the components of a process, which keeps all stakeholders, including new employees, informed about the different stages of the process.
Additionally, the SIPOC model helps identify variations in KPOV (Key Process Output Variable), which is a key outcome of a process.
These variations can greatly affect factors such as manufacturability, performance, reliability, and efficiency. Identifying and addressing these variations leads to smoother process integration, improvements, and optimization.
SIPOC Model Example
The SIPOC model is a powerful tool for improving business processes. By visually representing all the components of a process, it keeps everyone, including new employees, informed about the different stages of the process.
Additionally, the SIPOC model helps to identify variations in the Key Process Output Variable (KPOV), which is a factor that results as an output from a process.
These variations can greatly impact factors such as manufacturability, performance, reliability, and efficiency. By identifying and correcting these variations, it leads to a more seamless process integration and overall optimization.
To create a SIPOC table, process teams must be able to map out the entire operation. This includes identifying key players such as suppliers, inputs required for the process, final output, and the customer.
Here is a simple example of a SIPOC model for a vehicle repair facility.
| Supplier | Input | Process | Output | Customer |
| Repair kit suppliers
Spare parts suppliers Original Equipment Manufacturer The vehicle owner Customer representative |
Requisition for repair
The vehicle for repair Work order to proceed Approved parts for repairs |
Problem diagnosis
Spare parts sourcing Performing repairs Service completion notification |
Repair recommendation
Cost estimates Delivery time and date Repaired vehicle Text message / email / Telephone to inform the customer |
The vehicle owner
Customer representative |
How Does the SIPOC Model Help in Process Improvement?
The SIPOC model provides a comprehensive view of the entire process and subsequent actions that need to be taken. It allows teams to understand, communicate, and visualize the process effectively.
By identifying the underlying causes of problems, organizations can create effective strategies to improve processes. The SIPOC model helps teams to comprehend how suppliers, inputs, and process are impacting outputs and customer requirements.
Through understanding how these factors affect customers, teams can identify significant opportunities for improvement.
The Benefits of SIPOC
The SIPOC model offers numerous advantages for managing business processes. By providing a clear and comprehensive overview of all process elements, it improves problem-solving capabilities and enables more informed process management.
SIPOC diagrams also help ensure that all stakeholders have a shared understanding of the process.
Additionally, it is an essential component of the Six Sigma DMAIC methodology during the Define and Measure stages, leading to optimized business processes, increased efficiency, and increased revenue while reducing operating costs.
SIPOC Structure
SIPOC is an abbreviation or acronym for Supplier, Input, Process, Output, and Customer.
Here’s a detailed explanation:
S: Supplier (Supplier) is a person, organization, or system that provides the resources needed by the company to produce goods or services.
But the intent of the supplier is not limited to other companies. If the company consists of several process sequences, each previous process will be considered a supplier for the next cycle.
I : Input is material, information or other resources from suppliers for consumption or as Input for the production process.
P: Process (Process) is a series of actions and activities to convert Input into output.
O : Output is the goods or services produced by the process for sale and use by customers.
C : Customer (Customer) is a person, organization or system that receives the output of the process.
As explained in the supplier, the Customer section is also not limited to other companies that use our company’s products or services.
So in a series of processes within the company, each process receives the output of the previous method is also called a customer.
SIPOC Function
SIPOC analysis is very useful for identifying the company’s suppliers, Inputs, Processes, Outputs, and customers.
So it is usually used to clarify several things related to the five variables mentioned above, such as:
- Who is the supplier of inputs to the process?
- What specifications are needed for input?
- Who is the real customer who will receive the results of the process?
- What are the customer’s expectations and needs?
If it is known, the benefits that can be taken from the existence of SIPOC include:
- Know the overall work process flow
- Foster stronger interdepartmental cooperation
- Foster a creative and innovative mindset
- Making smart work in the team
- Able to transfer knowledge (knowledge) by way of brainstorming (exchange of thoughts) in achieve common goals
- Increase motivation in achieving organizational or company goals.