How can I apply Six Sigma in a software development environment?

Question

I am a Java developer, but I was asked to learn about applying Six Sigma with the goal of increasing our organization's profits. I have read that Six Sigma can be applied in all environments, but I'm interested in the nuances of applying it to software development.

Which concepts of Six Sigma can be applied to a software development environment and how can I effectively apply them?

My understanding is that Six Sigma focuses on:

• identifying and removing root causes of defects
• minimizing variability in applying manufacturing or business processes

It appears to me that these concepts could be applied to software development, but can that be applied effectively to an Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)?