Going through the Six Sigma Certification levels is not a simple process. Training to correctly apply lean manufacturing systems and the DMAIC method is what you need to make your business excel.
Six Sigma is a data-driven approach to improving the internal processes of a manufacturing facilities quality strategy. Highly trained quality control personnel, especially those with Six Sigma Certification, are a significant part of mapping out problem areas and planning solutions to issues.
Six Sigma Certification Levels
There are five levels of Six Sigma Certification. Your current resource level—based on education, recency, and professional experience, will determine what level of certification you feel comfortable testing in.
White Belt Certification
White belt certification is open to anyone at any level, demonstrates a basic understanding of Six Sigma and shows that the individual knows the history and structure of the discipline. This professional understands who handles quality improvement projects and what their position and responsibilities are within the company.
White belt certification shows a strong understanding of the “Body of Knowledge,” and only skilled professionals with basic training, and significant general knowledge of Six Sigma, or individuals seeking a single certification can be certified.
Yellow Belt Certification
The accepted standard as set forth by IASSC describes a yellow belt certification as being the basic knowledge of the DMAIC process. Yellow belt certification requires an in-depth understanding of the core principles, such as define, measure, analyze, improve, and control.
Certification at this level means you understand the Six Sigma process, including how the processes apply to your facility and how the statistics reveal where your problem areas lie, and it’s available to anyone without an engineering, scientific, statistical or math degree.
Green Belt Certification
A green belt certification denotes a high level of competence and understanding in the Six Sigma process. The professional with this certification leads a team on local quality improvement projects or takes a supportive role to a master black belt specialist on complicated development projects, at least part-time.
Those with basic exposure to statistics, such as social science, economics, natural science, engineering, math, statistical or scientific majors can apply for this certification.
Black Belt Certification
The black belt certification is an advanced certification showing proven advanced skills in problem-solving, team leadership, project management, and complex project implementation in a full-time capacity.
The person taking this exam will have advanced knowledge of Six Sigma methodology and can apply DMAIC with high proficiency. These are top-level leaders who can affect overall quality improvements and profit returns. Those who possess a significant level of Six Sigma, DMAIC and DMADV training would begin here.
Master Black Belt Certification
This is the golden ring for top professionals. The master black belt certification is for experts in Six Sigma, DMAIC and DMADV methodologies. It requires you to submit three authorized projects, have proven skills in team management and dynamics, and show the ability to assign teammates to appropriate positions and duties.
Those who are experts in Six Sigma, DMAIC and DMADV processes. Black Belt Certification is required to register for this exam.
Conclusion
A certification at any level can give your career a serious boost. Quality control and the ability to reduce problematic areas are of extreme value to any business and make you an authority in Six Sigma, giving you an advantage in any market. Pair that knowledge with valuable lean manufacturing systems, and you and your company have a significant competitive edge.
