Six Sigma is a method that is used to improve the quality of operations management by removing errors and defects, reducing cost, and saving time. You will find it in use in firms that specialize in high-end manufacturing or product engineering, as such operations can benefit from Six Sigma quality. Although 6 Sigma can be very expensive to implement, it pays off; it gives companies the return that makes them centers of excellence and industry leaders.
Six Sigma Certification Explained
The main goal of the 6 Sigma certification is to give credit to individuals who can do the job mentioned above. There are 6 Sigma certification levels, which we will dive into below:
White Belt – White Belts have the responsibility of incorporating basic Six Sigma concepts. Some of their tasks will include assisting with change management in a company and also engaging in problem solving with teams that analyze projects.
Yellow Belt – Yellow belts understand the concepts of 6 Sigma a little more than White Belts. This includes where it can be applied and the best course of action to apply the concepts. They often extend their support to project teams when it comes to problem solving and also help with various issues that may come up in operations.
Green Belt – Green Belts are capable of understanding advanced analysis. They are also skilled at solving problems in relation to production quality. Most notably, Green Belts work together with Black Belts in order to carry out data analysis and collection.
Black Belt: Black Belts are the experts. They are the agents of change in an organization. Their responsibilities include training and taking a lead role in projects. By the time someone has become a Black Belt, their importance and the value of the projects undertaken by them would have increased significantly.
Master Black Belt: Master Black Belt is the highest level of 6 Sigma achievement. At this level, you will shape strategy, develop key metrics, act as a consultant, coach, and trainer, and be responsible for handling high-stakes projects.
Lean Six Sigma Certification
You may be wondering what Lean Six Sigma certification is all about. 6 Sigma focuses on reducing process variations and improving process control, while Lean drives out waste by removing and eliminating ineffective processes and promoting work standardization and flow.
The distinction between Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma has blurred because of the new term Lean 6 Sigma, which is used more often than 6 Sigma alone or Lean alone. Improvement involves both eliminating ineffective processes and implementing new ones that work. Lean Six Sigma is the sum of both approaches.
Lean Six Sigma as a philosophy values defect prevention over defect detection. It focuses on reducing variation, waste, and cycle time while promoting work standardization and flow, creating a comparative advantage for different organizations.
In order to achieve its goals, Lean employs tools including Kaizen to achieve organization in the workplace, along with visual controls. However, Six Sigma relies more on statistical data analysis, design experimentation, and hypothesis testing. Implementation of these concepts begins with Lean in order to make the workplace more efficient and effective. After waste has been reduced and value streams are mapped, then more technical Six Sigma statistical rules can be applied.
Why Get Six Sigma Certification?
Now that you have an understanding of 6 Sigma, you may consider whether there are real advantages or benefits to obtaining certification or if it will just be another certificate. Operations management and quality management are technical areas, unlike a general business communication certificate. This specificity means that once you obtain this certification, your value as a professional increases across industries.
Six Sigma techniques can be applied in various areas ranging from aerospace to telecom, financial services, IT, HR, and marketing. The use of these effective techniques continues to grow. Completing this certification and passing the exams increases your industry value, leading to more opportunities, higher positions, more pay, and greater growth and learning.
Additionally, obtaining 6 Sigma certification can lead to managerial positions. Once you complete your certification, you will understand measuring and quantifying financial benefits from executing any 6 Sigma project and acquire risk assessment and financial management skills. These skills are highly valued, especially for those in middle-level management positions. Consequently, having these skills through your certification can accelerate your rise to these positions compared to those without the certificate.
Salary Expectations
Let’s be honest: we live in a capitalistic society, and money matters. Nobody wants to work for less when they can earn more. After obtaining a Six Sigma certificate, your salary potential increases significantly.
People can do a lot more with Six Sigma certifications. In fact, abroad, professionals with these credentials often earn significantly more, especially in manufacturing hubs where Six Sigma professionals are highly valued.
Eligibility for Six Sigma Certification
Are you eligible to get the 6 Sigma certification? For the Green Belt, specific eligibility and exam patterns must be cleared to move to the next level.
The certification process for 6 Sigma varies based on the belt level. It is important to research the certification requirements for both 6 Sigma and Lean Six Sigma, as they differ and are regulated by two distinct bodies.
Where to Get Your Certification
When it comes to securing your certification, keep in mind that there is no official body that has been given the responsibility of conducting Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma training or certification. Instead, many different firms train people based on the universal guidelines. It is up to you to select a respectable place that can teach you these skills.
Two organizations officially accredited 6 Sigma certifications:
- American Society for Quality (ASQ)
- International Association of Six Sigma Certification (IASSC)
Choose a certification accredited by one of these bodies. Additionally, ensure that your instructors possess a thorough understanding of the complex methods and tools involved in Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma. Consider the duration of the courses and ensure they fit your timeline and learning pace.
In Conclusion,
If you are clear that you want to pursue a career in quality management or operations management in industries where 6 Sigma is valued, obtaining certification is essential. If you are still exploring your options and unsure if you want to build a career in this field, consider checking out mini versions of Six Sigma certification online. You can find demos and explore syllabi from ASQ to understand what the certification entails. This exploration can help you decide whether you want to pursue the Six Sigma certification process.