Optimization of Coaching Using Six Sigma

Problem statement: In today’s sports world, coaching and training methods are the subject of intensive competition amongst rivals. Innovative technologies, methodologies and preparation methods are employed to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. Effective performance measurement, statistical analysis and data based decision taking have been identified as key elements towards efficient performance management. The statistical approach has been emphasized in order to fill the gaps in athlete’s preparation and improve performance. There is need to better connect the dots between the methods of statistical analysis and training and coaching methods used to improve the performance of an athlete or a team. Approach: Industry giants such as Motorola, General Electric and other improved the quality of their products through a statistically driven, six sigma methodology. Literatures in the six sigma performance measurement and improvement in industry, as well as traditional coaching in sports had been extensively reviewed. Research was carried out to establish potential application of six sigma in performance measurement and improvement in sports. Results: The six sigma approach was identified as a new method in measuring, analyzing, improving and analyzing sports performance and two examples were given. The methodology was applied on one example of data collected by authors over years of performance of a basketball team. Direction for further studies in the application of six sigma methodology in team and individual performance coaching and management were also identified. Conclusion: The results of this study determined that there is significant potential to successfully introduce the six sigma methodology of measurement, analysis and improvement in athletic performance. This new direction of analysis involved augmenting the existing traditional methods of coaching and performance management with a powerful methodology that clearly identifies root cause of athletic performance level, making it easier for the coach to take decisions and design a successful development plan.