|
Six Sigma is a business process and management methodology driven by data. It was developed by Motorola to reduce the risk of defects in their products and business processes, and focuses on projects that will provide measurable business results. This methodology is part of the Total Quality Management (TQM) initiative in business practices, and focuses on streamlining every process in business operations to improve quality of products and services. Six Sigma training programs are readily available from colleges and universities around the country, and allow professionals to obtain Six Sigma Certification.
What is Six Sigma Certification?
Six Sigma certification is awarded to those who complete a formal Six Sigma training program at an accredited college or university. Six Sigma concepts can be applied to a variety of businesses including the healthcare industry, IT, financial services industry and retail industry. Six Sigma business principles use both statistical methods and traditional management methods to create a productive organizational infrastructure that can be measured and improved upon over time.
Six Sigma Certification Training
Individuals who undertake a Six Sigma training program are encouraged to use a wide range of quality management tools and methods in order to define and review results of various initiatives. Six Sigma training programs promote the use of the following proven management methods:
Six Sigma Courses
The 6 Sigma course lineup varies depending on the type of designation you are pursuing, but most Six Sigma training programs consist of the following core courses:
-
Six Sigma Black Belt
-
Quality Engineering Statistics
-
LeanSigma Fundamentals
-
Managing and Leading in a Six Sigma World
-
Six Sigma Team Facilitation Skills
-
Lean Sensei
-
Six Sigma Green Belt
-
Six Sigma Lean Black Belt
Online Six Sigma Training: What to Expect
There are several online Six Sigma training programs available from accredited universities and colleges in the United States. These educational programs are designed to prepare students for the Six Sigma certification examination, and all learning materials, lectures and tests are available through an online platform.
Online Six Sigma training programs are most suitable for business professionals or students who want a flexible schedule, and can work well independently. In some cases, a proctored examination or test will need to be completed in order to pass the course.
Individuals who pursue online Six Sigma training programs can enjoy the flexibility of a self-paced format, and complete coursework when it best suits their schedule. Most online programs rely on textbooks and online tutorials to teach basic principles about the Six Sigma approach, and then host tests online to test for proficiency.
There are several levels of Six Sigma training available, and each one is comprised of beginner to advanced 6 Sigma course formats. Candidates can obtain a Six Sigma Black Belt, Green Belt, Yellow Belt, Champion, Design for Lean Six Sigma (DFSS) and Lean Sigma designations.
Six Sigma Implementation Roles
The Six Sigma training program borrows the ranking terminology to create a hierarchy for those who achieve Six Sigma Certification. This is defined as follows:
-
Executive Leadership: This often consists of upper-level management and the CEO, and they can use Six Sigma training to improve performance and productivity
-
Champions: These individuals may instill Six Sigma training principles in other areas of the organization, and may also be responsible for mentoring Black Belts
-
Master Black Belts: These individuals serve as Six Sigma training coaches and mentors for Black Belts and Green Belts. They may be asked to work in several departments in order to conduct various statistical analyses
-
Black Belts: These individuals typically work under the direction of the Master Black Belt to execute various projects
-
Green Belts: These individuals will be involved with Six Sigma implementation on the ‘ground level' to complete various tasks associated with their regular job responsibilities
Is There a Demand for Six Sigma Specialists?
Six Sigma specialists are hired by companies of all sizes, but mostly corporations looking to improve their business processes and produce better products. Most people who complete Six Sigma courses have a bachelor's degree in business or an MBA, as being Six Sigma-certified can improve career prospects. Some MBA programs include a Six Sigma training module, so the candidate receives Six Sigma certification upon graduation.
Demand for Six Sigma specialists continues to be strong, especially with the widespread adoption of business principles related to Total Quality Management (TQM). Ultimately, having Six Sigma certification means you can improve your career options regardless of the industry you work in, and increase your skills and abilities in a very specialized area of business operations.
|
