In the context of six sigma, which processes should have a designated process owner?

In the context of Six Sigma, key processes are fundamental to an organization's operational effectiveness and the achievement of strategic objectives. These processes directly impact the quality of products or services delivered to customers, hence their performance has significant implications for both customer satisfaction and business success.

Having a designated process owner for key processes ensures accountability and responsibility for their performance. The process owner is typically tasked with overseeing the process, monitoring performance metrics, implementing necessary improvements, and ensuring that the process is aligned with organizational goals. This role is crucial as it helps maintain focus on continuous improvement efforts and drives the overall Six Sigma methodology's application effectively.

In contrast, secondary processes, support processes, or redundant processes may not need the same level of dedicated oversight as key processes, as their direct impact on the organization’s main outputs may be less significant. While these processes are still important, they might not require a designated owner in the same way that key processes do, which are vital for the success of the organization's core mission and objectives.