Which of the following lists the five phases of DMAIC in the correct order?

• A. Define, Analyze, Measure, Improve, Control
• B. Measure, Define, Analyze, Improve, Control
• C. Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control
• D. Define, Analyze, Measure, Control, Improve

Answer: (C)

The order tested is the correct sequence because it builds a data-driven path from problem to sustained improvement. First, define the project and the problem clearly—set scope, goals, and what success looks like for the customer. This alignment ensures everyone is measuring the right thing and pursuing the right target. Then measure to collect reliable data about current performance and establish a baseline. You need solid data before you can understand what’s really happening. With data in hand, analyze to uncover root causes of the gap between current performance and the goal, distinguishing true drivers from noise. Once you know the root causes, you can design and implement improvements that address them, testing and validating their impact. Finally, control puts the gains into place for the long term: a control plan, standardized procedures, and ongoing monitoring so the process remains improved and stable.

If you swap steps, you risk chasing the wrong problem, basing decisions on incomplete data, or losing the improvements when they aren’t actively sustained.