Using data analysis and statistics to improve business quality has a long history. But it often seems like most of that history involves huge operations. After all, Six Sigma originated with Motorola, and was embraced by thousands of other businesses after it was adopted by a little-known outfit called GE.

There are many case studies and examples of how big companies used Six Sigma methods to save millions of dollars, slash expenses, and improve quality. But when they read about the big dogs getting those kind of results, a lot of folks hear a little voice in their heads saying, "Sure, but could it work in my small business?"

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