How to Become Lean Six Sigma Certified
Lean Six Sigma is a process of improvement for businesses and organisations and is a combination of the two popular continuous improvement methods: Lean and Six Sigma. Lean Six Sigma provides organisations with a clear path to improving their missions as efficiently as possible and defines anything as waste that does not add value to the business. This article will provide an informative guide of how you can become Lean Six Sigma certified and the benefits that this brings to both a company and its customers.
What is Lean Six Sigma?
In a nutshell, Lean Six Sigma is a useful methodology process which is used to fix a problem, usually within a business or other large organisation. Lean Six Sigma comprises of Lean tools for waste reduction and Six Sigma’s DMAIC phases.
It is important to recognise that Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma are different certifications. They are not to be confused as the same and that this article will concentrate specifically on Lean Six Sigma.
There are five basic stages of Lean Six Sigma:
Following this structure allows you and team members to identify and efficiently solve a problem which creates improved results within business processes.
The Process of Becoming Lean Six Sigma Certified
Earning a Lean Six Sigma certification is an excellent way to advance and excel your career regardless of the specific industry that you work. Everyone can benefit from the experiences and body of knowledge that Lean Six Sigma offers.
Check Eligibility
Before starting the process, it is vital to establish the different certification courses and individual certification requirements to ensure that you are embarking on the correct belt level of certification. Lean Six Sigma Certification is offered at five levels, namely Yellow belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt and Project Champion.
Get Training
The journey to becoming Lean Six Sigma certified starts with choosing the correct accreditation body. The International Association of Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) accredits training courseware for Lean Six Sigma training. It is essential to select a training provider and certification company that has both a thorough knowledge and expertise in all relevant concepts. Having a reputable provider ensures that you receive training that meets the standards of the accrediting body.
Pass Examination
After receiving the appropriate training, it is time to pass the examination. The type of test and length will depend on the specific certification exam that you are sitting.
Get Certified
After successfully passing the examination, you will receive written feedback and a certification meaning that you have officially joined the Certification Register.
Renew Certification
While your certification does not expire, many businesses and individuals encourage continuing professional development such as enrolling for a higher level of certification.
Levels of Lean Six Sigma Certification
There are five primary levels of Lean Six Sigma Certification:
Lean Six Sigma White Belt: An entry-level certification that provides basic concepts of six sigma.
Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification: A foundation level of Lean Six Sigma. There are no prerequisites required to sit the exam at this level. The exam consists of a closed book 60 question exam to be completed in two hours.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification: There are no prerequisites to sit the green belt exam. The exam requires you to attain an approximate minimum score of 385 points out of a potential 500 points from multiple-choice questions. Attaining a green belt certification shows that you are well versed in both the core and advanced elements of Lean Six Sigma.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification: An individual who holds a black belt certification displays a thorough understanding and high-level of competence in Lean Six Sigma. The exam is four hours long and consists of approximately 150 questions.
Master Black Belt Certification: The the most advanced certification available in Lean Six Sigma. Completing master black belt training shows that you are an expert in the deployment of six sigma and achieving improvement across various areas of a business or organisation.
Business Benefits of Being Lean Six Sigma Certified
Both small and large businesses reap the benefits of being Lean Six Sigma certified as it increases revenue and reduces costs to a company. Following this process, therefore, frees up resources that can be used in the way that the organisation wishes to pursue.
Popular Career Pathways with Lean Six Sigma Certification
Becoming Lean Six Sigma certified opens up a lot of doors. The certification not only proves your firm commitment to continuous improvement and high standards of work, but they speak volumes about your capabilities as a potential employee.
Whatever role you’re hankering after, Lean Six Sigma will attest to your skill set and show future employers that you’re a versatile candidate and a strong leader.
