Which tool is primarily used to help teams manage project timelines in Six Sigma?

The Gantt chart is a powerful project management tool that visually represents a project schedule over time. It allows teams to break down the overall timeline into smaller, manageable tasks, making it easier to track progress, identify dependencies, and allocate resources effectively. The horizontal representation of time (typically along the x-axis) and the tasks or milestones (on the y-axis) provides a clear visual of what needs to be accomplished, when, and how long each task is expected to take.

In a Six Sigma context, where teams are often working on improving processes and implementing changes, the Gantt chart helps maintain focus on deadlines and ensures that all team members are aware of their responsibilities. This visual tool fosters collaboration and helps teams to remain organized, especially in complex projects involving multiple phases and stakeholders.

Other tools mentioned, such as flowcharts and fishbone diagrams, are primarily focused on process mapping and root cause analysis, respectively, rather than on managing timelines. Control charts are used for monitoring process performance over time, particularly in relation to quality control, but they do not provide the timeline management that Gantt charts do.