What is a key principle of Six Sigma?

Minimizing variations is a key principle of Six Sigma because the methodology is fundamentally focused on reducing defects and improving quality in processes. By minimizing variations, organizations can achieve a more predictable and consistent performance, which directly impacts customer satisfaction and overall operational efficiency. This principle emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of variability in processes and implementing strategies to control and reduce it. Such an approach allows organizations to maintain better quality standards and meet the needs of their customers more effectively.

In the context of the other choices, while standardizing processes can contribute to minimizing variations, it's not as directly aligned with the core focus of Six Sigma. Moreover, maximizing production and increasing costs contradict the fundamental objectives of Six Sigma, which are centered around efficiency, quality improvement, and cost reduction through waste elimination and process optimization.