Do you have experience with lean six sigma?
If the answer is “no”, then we can tell you that you’re most likely not ready for a black belt yet.
Don’t let this put you off; we can offer guidance on the best way to kick start your training and work with lean six sigma and process improvement.
Where to Begin?
Your best starting point is a lean six sigma yellow or green belt.
These are both really beneficial certifications and perfect for anyone at the start of their process improvement journey.
Here, we will take a look at each option, giving you a general idea of what the role entails and the training commitment looks like.
A Quick Note About Six Sigma Belts
Before we go any further, it’s probably helpful to give a quick overview of the six sigma belt system, and how it applies to your training and certification.
The belt system, inspired by belts in martial arts, is simply a way to rank the level of knowledge and capability a person has with lean six sigma tools and techniques.
Here is how it works:
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White Belt
Someone who has an introductory level of knowledge and understanding of lean and a little six sigma.
These are usually people who interact with process improvement teams, but don’t necessarily run projects.
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Yellow Belt
Yellow belts have a strong foundation of lean and some six sigma knowledge.
They possess a kit of effective tools and can run small process improvement projects within their scope of influence. They also contribute to larger green and black belt-led initiatives.
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Green Belt
Green belts are confident and capable with both lean and six sigma. They can run larger projects than yellow belts, at team or even department level.
Green belts regularly support black belts in their work. They will also mentor yellow belts in the application of process improvement techniques.
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Black Belt
Black belts are experienced in leading and participating in continuous improvement projects.
They take a more strategic, cross-functional approach to their work. Black belts focus on organisational improvement and growth, rather than merely at a team or department level.
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Master Black Belt
Slightly more niche than a black belt, a master black belt combines black belt knowledge with even more extensive experience and often specialises in a particular sector or technique.
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Champion
Not quite within the belt ranking, but important to its structure, the role of Champion is a supportive one within lean six sigma.
The role often refers to leadership and executive teams advocating for and actively supporting the use of lean six sigma within an organisation.
Yellow Belt or Green Belt?
You may already have an idea of which role is best for your initial lean six sigma training from the descriptions above.
If you’re unsure about where to begin, here are some helpful nuggets of information:
- You can begin at either yellow or green belt level
- Your choice will depend on what you want to achieve from the beginning
- There are no pre-requisites for either our yellow or green belt courses
We find that students opt for yellow or green belt, depending on:
- How much depth they would like to go into for their first training.
- Their availability for training.
- Their reasons for seeking training and certification.
Read on for a quick synopsis of each course and resources for learning more…
Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt – 2 Days
This course is a popular introduction to lean six sigma.
It is ideal for someone who wants a short course, but also wishes to come away with workable skills and knowledge.
If you’re seeking a useful taster in lean six sigma that comes with certification, this is an excellent choice.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt – 5 Days
Our most frequently run lean six sigma course, green belt is for those who are ready to get serious about process improvement.
Over 5 days (with a break between day 3 and day 4), you will cover a broad spectrum of lean six sigma knowledge and techniques.
If you would like to begin actively running process improvement projects in your organisation or are seeking to specialise in lean six sigma, this is your starting point.
Still Unsure? Talk to us…
If, after reading the information above, you’re still not sure which is the right choice for you, we can help.
Get in touch for advice custom to your goals and your career path.
You can reach our consultants by phone (Freephone 1800 910 810 or Dublin 01 861 0700) or online using the button below.
