Increase Your Professional Value With Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma, a statistical analysis project methodology, promotes continuous process improvement through the systemic identification of problems and implementation of data-driven solutions. Competitive corporate environments, increased demands in regulatory and quality spheres and growing customer desire for instant, accurate services have created a niche in the job market for project managers and leaders with analytical skills. Six Sigma certification provides highly valued tools and skills and can be a powerful addition to any resume.

What Does Six Sigma Certification Teach?

Although material covered in a certification program may vary slightly, there are fundamental aspects of Six Sigma taught by all organizations. Coverage of project management methods and tools with specific emphasis on the DMAIC process are usually included. DMAIC is a standardized way of working through a project in five stages. The stages include:

• A Define stage during which a problem is stated, team charters are written and process maps and other defining elements are created regarding current procedures,

• A Measurement stage that allows teams to obtain a baseline metric and collect data for use in the project,

• An Analyze stage when teams review collected data using statistical premises, conduct root cause analysis and begin to brainstorm and select appropriate solutions,

• An Improve stage during which teams design and implement improvements on the process and test for success, and

• A Control stage when the process owner takes control and monitors the procedure using baseline metrics to ensure continued success.

In order to maximize success with the DMAIC method, Six Sigma students are introduced to an array of tools and statistical concepts. The depth to which students are exposed to concepts depends on the level of certification being gained. Six Sigma certification is available at Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt and Master Black Belt levels.

Six Sigma Certification Levels

Yellow Belt certification usually involves an overview of method principles and is provided to corporate management. The purpose of Yellow Belt training is for leaders to be able to understand and interact with Six Sigma certified managers and project leaders within the organization. Since projects must be sponsored by executive levels, those individuals need to be able to understand what is involved.

Green Belt certification often covers the DMAIC process in depth and provides a basic statistics overview that includes standard deviation, control charting and analytical tools like correlation and pareto charts. Green Belts usually participate in Six Sigma projects driven by Black Belts and may also lead small improvement efforts within their departments or expertise.

Black Belt and Master Black Belt certification is more in-depth. Additional project tools are covered and advanced statistical concepts like regression models, hypothesis testing and sample size calculations are usually taught at the Black Belt level. Master Black Belt certification usually comes after several years of hands-on Black Belt experience and additional classes. Black Belts work as project managers, Six Sigma trainers and department managers. Sometimes, companies hire Black Belts to implement Six Sigma methods within their organization. Master Black Belts are the Six Sigma gurus. They run programs to teach Six Sigma within large corporations and handle projects with high risks or large capitol expenses.

Six Sigma Certification Requirements and Costs

The requirements for official Six Sigma certification depend on the program and level. Schools and companies have various checkpoints for certification. Often, Green Belt certification only requires completion of coursework and demonstration through an exam or project presentation that the student understands how to apply the tools and concepts. Black Belt certification is usually more comprehensive. Some programs require lengthy coursework, passing grades on exams and completion of an appropriate level project. A few companies require a Black Belt to demonstrate a minimum dollar amount in savings through a Six Sigma project prior to certification.

Six Sigma certification cost also varies according to program and company. Large corporations often offer in-house certification programs or contract outside vendors to conduct training. In these cases, the company usually identifies candidates for the program from current and potential leadership. The company pays for the training and certification, because it is seen as an investment in resources. Other companies offer educational reimbursement programs that cover work-related certifications. Employees can attend Six Sigma training online or through local schools. If the student obtains a passing grade, the employer reimburses part or all of the expense.

Those not in a position to take advantage of employer offered training or reimbursement programs can find affordable online programs. This is a good option for someone looking to make a career change or move up in a current position. Often, these programs offer financial assistance in the way of payment plans. Classes available through accredited online schools may make students eligible for federal aid funds.

Why Get Certified in Six Sigma?

Many people obtain certification in Six Sigma because it looks good on a resume. While this is true, there are other practical benefits to such a certification. The knowledge gained through a Six Sigma course increases the ability to regard processes with an analytical outlook. Recent studies of corporate and manufacturing companies indicate leaders who make data-driven decisions produce better products and profits than those who rely on traditional management techniques or on-the-fly decision making.

Business owners who can step away from the emotional investment in their processes and use statistical evidence in planning are more apt to make rational, value-added moves. Supervisors who use Six Sigma to provide continuously improved performance and reduced error rates are singled out for high-level projects and future promotions. Executive leaders who can understand the metrics of their business command the respect of staff, make fact-based decisions and impress shareholders by delivering increased profits without sacrificing customer service.

Six Sigma certification has benefits for almost every person in a corporate, financial, health care or manufacturing job. As the methodology grows in popularity throughout various industries, companies are seeking certified and experienced Six Sigma staff members. Jobs for project managers, Six Sigma trainers, business analysts and process control managers are being created, and the proper certification provides the value individuals need to land those positions.

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