Get Six Sigma Certified in 6 Easy Steps

Six Sigma is a data-driven approach and methodology which is used for eliminating defects in any process from manufacturing to transactional, from product to service. Many Fortune 500 companies and prominent industry brands are following the Six Sigma methodology to improve their business processes.

Six sigma has two methodologies abbreviated as ‘DMAIC’ and ‘DMADV’. DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control.  DMADV stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Define and Verify. Once you get Six Sigma certified, a host of new opportunities will open up for you. A Six Sigma certification is globally accepted, which will enable you to get opportunities across the globe. With the certification, your skills in six sigma will be officially validated. 

Table of Contents

• What is Six Sigma?
• Why get six sigma certified?
• Steps to get six sigma certified

What is Six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a data-driven methodology and set of techniques designed to improve processes by identifying and eliminating defects. The primary goal of Six Sigma is to enhance products or services’ quality by minimizing variability in processes and reducing errors to a level of 3.4 defects per million opportunities (DPMO). Developed by Motorola in the 1980s, Six Sigma combines statistical tools, quality management principles, and business strategies.

It often uses the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework for problem-solving and process improvement. Six Sigma professionals are usually certified as Green Belts, Black Belts, or Master Black Belts, depending on their level of expertise and training. The six sigma certification is awarded in belt based levels. These are white, yellow, green, black, master black and champion. There is no universal standard for awarding a particular belt to aspirants. Each institute follows its own criteria.

Why get Six Sigma Certified?

Here are some reasons why individuals and organizations opt for Six Sigma certification:

1. Process Improvement: Six Sigma provides tools and techniques to systematically analyze and improve processes, leading to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness.
2. Cost Reduction: By identifying and eliminating defects and waste, organizations can significantly reduce costs and save resources.
3. Customer Satisfaction: Improved processes lead to higher quality products and services, thus leading to an increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
4. Competitive Advantage: Six Sigma certification can give businesses an edge over competitors by showcasing their commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
5. Professional Development: For individuals, Six Sigma certification enhances career prospects, showcasing expertise in quality management and analytical skills.
6. Data-Driven Decision Making: Six Sigma emphasizes the importance of data and statistical analysis, promoting decisions based on evidence rather than assumptions.
7. Standardized Processes: Six Sigma provides a structured approach to problem-solving, ensuring consistency and repeatability across processes.
8. Cultural Change: Adopting Six Sigma can foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within an organization.
9. Increased Revenue: Improved processes can lead to faster turnaround times, higher quality products, and, consequently, increased revenue.
10. Global Recognition: Six Sigma principles are recognized and valued worldwide, making certification beneficial for professionals and organizations operating in global markets.

Steps To Get Six Sigma Certified 

Once you become Six Sigma certified,  a host of new opportunities will open up for you. A Six Sigma certification is globally accepted, which will enable you to get opportunities across the globe. With the certification, your skills in six sigma will be officially validated. 

The six sigma certification is awarded in belt based levels. These are white, yellow, green, black, master black and champion. There is no universal standard for awarding a particular belt to aspirants. Each institute follows its own criteria. 

Here are the steps that will guide you to become a Six Sigma certified professional:

Step 1: Understand the Management Philosophy of Your Organisation

The first question is to understand if the current management philosophy at your workplace or the industry you are planning to switch requires a Six Sigma certification. If you feel that a Six Sigma training is going to help the organisation to reduce waste and remove overhead, then you should suggest a Six Sigma training. Six Sigma training is also ideal for those who are in quality management, production or operations profile and are looking to improve their chances of getting better job opportunities.

Step 2: Choose between Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma

Though in theory, Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma have the same goal, there is some difference in the practices. The primary difference between Lean and Six Sigma is that Lean is less focused entirely on manufacturing, but often shapes every facet of a business. So, if you are associated with the manufacturing industry or production, then Lean Six Sigma will be the right bet for you. However, Six Sigma is the preferred choice if your organisation already follows it.

Step 3: Check Out Which Level Suits You

Are you a project manager or someone helping the project manager? Do you already know the basics of Six Sigma?

There are various levels of Six Sigma according to the different role it has to play in management:

White Belt:  Works on the local problem-solving area that supports overall projects but may not be part of a Six Sigma project team.

Yellow Belt: Works as a project team member and reviews process improvements.

Green Belt: Guide teams with data collections and analysis for the Black Belt project.

Black Belt: Works on problem-solving projects.

Master Black Belt: Trains and coaches Black Belts and Green Belts.

You need to choose the right level for you. If you are someone who is not working on a project, it is better to start with the White Belt, and if you are someone who has project experience but never have Six Sigma training, then Yellow Belt is the right option.

Step 4: Learn about the tests associated with it

Every level of the Six Sigma has different areas of understanding of the tools and techniques associated with the methodology. There are two common methods in Six Sigma: DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Control). The proficiency tests usually include hands-on projects and written exams. These tests will ensure that you have the right amount of proficiency to complete tasks using the doctrines of Six Sigma. Learn about these tests before preparation.

Also Read>> 5 Must-Know Questions on Six Sigma!

Step 5: Enrol in a training course

The best way to prepare for a Six Sigma proficiency test is to enrol in a training course. There are classroom training and online Six Sigma courses. Depending upon your convenience and requirements, you can choose whichever is best suited for you. There is no formal body that provides training but, usually, most of the prominent training programs are accredited. It will help you to get the hands-on learning experience on the various tools and techniques used in the Six Sigma methodology.

Step 6: Obtain your certification

There are a number of certification providers in Six Sigma. You can apply for it individually or, in some cases, organisations provide resources for such certifications. Some of the leading institutions which provide Six Sigma certifications are:

• ASQ
• Vskills (Govt. Certification )
• KPMG
• Indian Statistical Institute
• BSI group

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