In Six Sigma, what is meant by the term "defect"?

In the context of Six Sigma, the term "defect" is defined as any item that does not meet customer specifications. This definition is fundamental to the Six Sigma methodology, which aims to improve quality by minimizing defects in products and processes. A defect is not merely about errors or mistakes; it specifically refers to situations where a product or service fails to conform to predefined criteria that satisfy customer expectations.

By focusing on defects as defined by customer specifications, Six Sigma practitioners can identify areas for improvement and strive for higher levels of quality and customer satisfaction. The approach emphasizes understanding what the customer defines as an acceptable product or service and then working to eliminate anything that fails to meet that standard.

The other options may relate to quality or efficiency, but they do not encapsulate the precise definition of a "defect" in the Six Sigma framework. For instance, while errors in the production process could lead to defects, not every production error results in a defect if the specifications are still met. Similarly, delays in delivery and unused raw materials, while problematic, do not directly correlate with the definition of a defect concerning product quality.