Maximizing Your Career Potential with Six Sigma Certification

Introduction: Understanding the Value of Six Sigma Certification

In today's competitive job market, individuals are constantly seeking ways to enhance their skill sets and stand out among their peers. One highly effective method for achieving this is by obtaining Six Sigma certification. Originating from the manufacturing industry, Six Sigma has evolved into a widely recognized methodology for improving business processes across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and technology.

What is Six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a data-driven approach to process improvement aimed at minimizing defects and maximizing efficiency within an organization. It employs a set of methodologies and tools to identify and eliminate errors or defects in processes, ultimately leading to improved quality and increased customer satisfaction.

Benefits of Six Sigma Certification

1. Career Advancement Opportunities

Obtaining Six Sigma certification can significantly enhance your career prospects. Employers across industries value professionals with Six Sigma expertise due to their ability to drive process improvements and cost savings. With certification, you become an asset to any organization looking to streamline operations and achieve operational excellence.

2. Competitive Edge in the Job Market

In today's competitive job market, having Six Sigma certification sets you apart from other candidates. It demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and your proficiency in implementing data-driven solutions. Whether you're seeking a new job or aiming for a promotion within your current organization, Six Sigma certification can give you the edge you need to succeed.

3. Increased Earning Potential

Professionals with Six Sigma certification often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. Employers recognize the value of individuals who can drive efficiency and quality within their organizations, and they are willing to compensate accordingly. By investing in Six Sigma training and certification, you're investing in your future earning potential.

How to Obtain Six Sigma Certification

1. Choose the Right Certification Level

Six Sigma certifications are available at various levels, including Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, and Master Black Belt. The level you choose depends on your career goals, experience level, and desired level of expertise.

2. Enroll in a Accredited Training Program

To obtain Six Sigma certification, you must complete a training program from a reputable provider. Look for programs accredited by recognized organizations such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). These programs will ensure that you receive high-quality training and preparation for certification exams.

3. Pass the Certification Exam

Once you've completed your training program, you'll need to pass a certification exam to become Six Sigma certified. The exam will test your knowledge of Six Sigma methodologies, tools, and techniques. Be sure to thoroughly prepare for the exam by reviewing course materials, practicing sample questions, and seeking assistance from instructors or mentors if needed.

4. Maintain Your Certification

Maintaining your Six Sigma certification requires ongoing professional development and adherence to certification requirements. This may include earning continuing education credits, participating in relevant projects, or renewing your certification periodically. By staying current and engaged in the Six Sigma community, you'll ensure that your certification remains valid and valuable throughout your career.

Conclusion: Unlocking Your Full Potential with Six Sigma Certification

In conclusion, Six Sigma certification is a powerful tool for advancing your career and achieving your professional goals. Whether you're aiming to stand out in the job market, increase your earning potential, or drive meaningful change within your organization, Six Sigma certification can help you reach new heights of success. By investing in your education and obtaining Six Sigma certification, you're investing in yourself and your future.

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Benefits of Six Sigma

Introduction

In today's business world, organizations face a constant challenge to improve quality, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. The Six Sigma methodology is one such approach that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Six Sigma is a data-driven, disciplined, and continuous improvement methodology that aims to eliminate defects and improve processes. In this article, we will discuss the various benefits of Six Sigma and how it can help organizations achieve their goals.

History of Six Sigma

Before we delve into the benefits of Six Sigma, let us first understand its history. Six Sigma was first introduced by Motorola in the 1980s to improve their manufacturing processes. Since then, Six Sigma has evolved and is now used in various industries such as healthcare, banking, and IT.

Understanding Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a data-driven approach that aims to minimize defects in a process. It is based on the DMAIC methodology, which stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control. Let's understand each of these steps in detail.

Read More: Six Sigma Certifications

Define

The first step in Six Sigma is to define the problem or the opportunity for improvement. This step involves identifying the process that needs improvement and the specific problem that needs to be solved.

Measure

The second step is to measure the current performance of the process. This step involves collecting data on the process and measuring its performance using various statistical tools.

Analyze

The third step is to analyze the data collected in the previous step to identify the root cause of the problem. This step involves using various statistical tools such as Pareto charts, histograms, and cause-and-effect diagrams.

Improve

The fourth step is to improve the process by implementing solutions that address the root cause of the problem. This step involves testing the solution and validating its effectiveness.

Control

The final step is to control the process by implementing controls and monitoring its performance. This step ensures that the process remains stable and does not revert to its previous state.

Benefits of Six Sigma

Now that we understand Six Sigma and its methodology, let us discuss its various benefits.

Increased efficiency

Six Sigma helps organizations improve their processes and eliminate waste, resulting in increased efficiency. By reducing the time taken to complete a process and improving the quality of the output, organizations can achieve higher productivity.

Cost savings

Implementing Six Sigma can lead to significant cost savings for organizations. By reducing defects and waste, organizations can save on resources, rework, and other costs associated with poor quality.

Improved customer satisfaction

Six Sigma focuses on meeting customer requirements and improving the quality of the output. By doing so, organizations can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Better decision-making

Six Sigma relies on data-driven decision-making, which helps organizations make informed decisions. By analyzing data and identifying the root cause of the problem, organizations can make better decisions that lead to improved outcomes.

Employee engagement

Six Sigma involves employees at all levels of the organization and encourages them to participate in problem-solving. This leads to increased employee engagement and empowerment.

Competitive advantage

Implementing Six Sigma can provide organizations with a competitive advantage. By improving their processes and reducing defects, organizations can differentiate themselves from their competitors and gain a market advantage.

Conclusion

Six Sigma is a powerful methodology that can help organizations improve their processes and achieve their goals. By implementing Six Sigma, organizations can achieve increased efficiency, cost savings, improved customer satisfaction, better decision-making, employee engagement, and a competitive advantage. It is no wonder that Six Sigma has gained immense popularity in recent years and is now used by organizations worldwide.

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Six Sigma: The Key to Unlocking a Highly Engaged Workplace

In today's fast-paced and competitive business world, companies need to constantly innovate and improve to stay ahead of the competition. However, improving business processes can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring that employees are engaged and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization. Six Sigma is a data-driven methodology that can help organizations improve their processes while also fostering a highly engaged workplace. In this article, we'll explore how Six Sigma can be used to create a highly engaged workplace.

What is Six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a data-driven methodology that is used to improve business processes. It was developed by Motorola in the 1980s and has since been adopted by many other companies. The goal of Six Sigma is to identify and eliminate defects in a process. A defect is anything that does not meet the customer's requirements or expectations. By eliminating defects, companies can improve their processes and provide better products and services to their customers.

How does Six Sigma work?

Six Sigma uses a five-step process known as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control). Let's take a closer look at each step:

Define

In the first step of DMAIC, the problem is defined. The team identifies the problem and defines the scope of the project. They also establish the goals and objectives of the project.

Measure

In the second step, the team collects data on the process. This data is used to establish a baseline for the process and to identify areas for improvement.

Analyze

In the third step, the team analyzes the data to identify the root cause of the problem. They use tools such as cause-and-effect diagrams, Pareto charts, and process flowcharts to help them analyze the data.

Improve

In the fourth step, the team develops and implements solutions to address the root cause of the problem. They also test the solutions to ensure that they are effective.

Control

In the final step, the team establishes control measures to ensure that the improvements are sustained over time. They also develop a plan to monitor the process and make further improvements if necessary.

How can Six Sigma create a highly engaged workplace?

Six Sigma can create a highly engaged workplace in several ways:

1. Employee involvement

Six Sigma encourages employee involvement in the improvement process. This involvement can lead to increased engagement and motivation among employees. When employees are involved in the process of improving their work, they feel more invested in the success of the organization.

2. Focus on customer satisfaction

Six Sigma is focused on improving processes to meet customer requirements and expectations. When employees understand the importance of meeting customer needs, they are more likely to be engaged in their work and motivated to provide high-quality products and services.

3. Data-driven decision making

Six Sigma uses data to make decisions about process improvement. This approach can lead to more objective and informed decision making. When employees understand the importance of data in decision making, they are more likely to be engaged in the process and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization.

4. Continuous improvement

Six Sigma is a continuous improvement methodology. This means that the organization is constantly striving to improve its processes. When employees see that the organization is committed to continuous improvement, they are more likely to be engaged in the process and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization. 

Conclusion

Six Sigma is a powerful methodology that can be used to improve business processes and create a highly engaged workplace. By involving employees in the improvement process, focusing on customer satisfaction, using data-driven decision making, and committing to continuous improvement, organizations can create a culture of engagement and motivation.

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Lean Six Sigma Explained

If you are looking to improve the way you carry out processes in your business and change the way things work, Lean Six Sigma may be an ideal option.

Nearly forty years old, this methodology has helped thousands of organizations around the world speed up production, improve efficiency and help save money.

You may be wondering if it is right for your business and if so, how to go about becoming a qualified practitioner. If the answer to both of these questions is yes, we’ve put together this short guide to help you find out more about Lean Six Sigma.

The history of Lean Six Sigma

Lean Six Sigma was initially devised by Motorola in 1985. The methodology came into being as a way for the company to reduce manufacturing issues and increase efficiency.

In fact, ‘sigma’ is a measurement of variation. With Lean Six Sigma, you want to reduce the number of variations (or defects) in your processes, as well as eliminate any unnecessary steps. Sigma strives to achieve near-perfect output, high-quality and consistent improvement.

This methodology was initially used by companies in the manufacturing industry. However, Lean Six Sigma has now been adopted by a wide range of different sectors including IT, healthcare, marketing and banking.

If your business has processes in place, then the Lean Six Sigma methodology can be applied.

What is Lean Six Sigma all about?

Lean Six Sigma is about data gathering, looking at issues analytically and measuring data to see if the processes put in place are working.

It’s also about continuous improvement. Once a problem has been resolved, it still needs to be monitored to see if there is a better, more efficient way of carrying it out.

Lean Six Sigma requires buy-in and commitment from everyone in the organisation, from the Managing Director to those on the shop floor. Everyone across the company needs to be aware of what is being done and how even the smallest changes can have a significant impact.

A good project manager skilled in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology will rally people behind any changes that need to be made.

What is DMAIC?

DMAIC is one of the critical methodologies that Lean Six Sigma uses. It is utilised to find and eliminate defects in a process.

DMAIC stands for:

◉ Define – define the problem, as well as what and who is needed to solve it

◉ Measure – quantify the problem and establish a baseline so you can see how things are improving

◉ Analyse – identify what is causing the problem and how you can change or remove these issues

◉ Improve – solve the problem, implement the changes and check that any amends made are working

◉ Control – ensure that the problem does not return, and that the process continues to improve over time

The belts of Lean Six Sigma

Six Sigma has a lot in common with karate. Both require precision, dedication and knowledge.

With karate, you receive a new colour belt when you pass your exams. With Lean Six Sigma, although you do not receive a physical belt, the different grades are called ‘belts’!

People with no formal Lean Six Sigma qualifications are known as ‘white belts’. After this, there are three different levels of accreditation.

Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt

This is a short introduction to the world of Lean Six Sigma – ideal for those who may not be managing change but are involved in supporting the people that are.

Learn more about our Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

The next step on the Lean Six Sigma ladder, a Green Belt, is a good starting point for project managers. This course introduces them to the problem-solving frameworks that Lean Six Sigma utilises.

This is a lifetime certification and does not need to be recertified.

Learn more about our Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

In karate, a black belt means that you have mastered all there is to know and are ready to lead others. The same applies to a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma.

This advanced course teaches delegates how to drive change across the business as well as how to measure performance.

This certification needs to be renewed every three years.

You don’t have to complete Lean Six Sigma Green belt before you take on this accreditation, but it is recommended.

If you want to take things even further, you can study for a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. This shows that you can not only lead others but are qualified to teach them in Lean Six Sigma methodology too.

Learn more about our Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

Why is Lean Six Sigma so beneficial?

Lean Six Sigma has the following benefits for organisations.

◉ It improves productivity

◉ It improves quality

◉ It increases customer and stakeholder satisfaction

◉ It ensures compliance with government regulations

◉ It reduces waste

◉ It reduces operating costs

◉ It reduces risk

◉ It reduces employee turnover

It also has benefits for you too! Holding a Lean Six Sigma Qualification can increase your salary and help you get promoted to managerial roles.

Source: itonlinelearning.com

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Difference between Scrum and Six Sigma

1. Scrum:

Scrum is a lightweight framework for agile development. It is subset of Agile Software development process which is nothing but an iterative and incremental software development technology.

Scrum can be defined as an assembling of peoples and that represents a teamwork. A group of ten or less than ten peoples in which they have specific skills to perform their own task in a particular era. Scrum was introduced to develop, deliver and for satisfying the products in a multiplex habitat.

The team of scrum consists of a product owner, a scrum Master and the developers. It mainly focuses on the product and other roles as well.

1. Product Owner : Product owner represents the product’s stakeholder and it manages the requirement of the customer, also focuses on the productivity and betterment of business. This is the most important role which handles both the business sides as well as the developer’s side in the scrum team.

2. Developers : Developers plays a vital role here; they manage all the technical part for growth of the business. They also convey to the researchers, architects, designers, data specialist, analysts, engineers, programmer, for developing for developing or improvement of the product.

3. Scrum Master : Scrum master is responsible for removing the obstacles during the production or delivering. It also ensures that the scrum framework is obeying the methodologies of business or not and also in the growth of production. Scrum mainly helps the product owner to keep the backlog of the product, well-being of the business.

Workflow of Scrum :

In scrum workflow, it requires several steps those are:

1. Sprint Planning : In this method the product owner and the developers discussed together that which product backlog items should be given to the sprint. This sprint planning focuses on the correct executing and removing error to get a sprint goal and backlog.

2. Daily Scrum : Daily scrum given the overview of sprint goal. The developers with lack of their time they can check quickly and easily, assess the program, activity plans for the next 24 hour. The daily Scrum is limited for only 15 minutes.

3. Sprint Review : This process initiated at the end of the sprint. It authorizes the scrum team, the occasion to present the recent increment done to the stakeholders. It checks the improvement and the work process of the sprint.

4. Sprint Retrospective : This is the final step in sprint. This method ensures that what change could occur in sprint for the Improvement. This process resolves by collaborating all the members such as the product owner, scrum master, the developers, and the entire scrum teams for the betterment and progress of the business.

2. Six Sigma :

Six sigma it is a set of approach and which provide tools for processing and improvement. Six sigma was introduced by an American Engineer named as “Bill Smith” in the year 1986, when Bill Smith was working at Motorola company.

The term six sigma has been derived from statistical method. This mainly focuses on achieving profit and financial status. Six sigma is highly recommended for business growth and increment of profits as well. Based on statistical method we can easily detect the error in the system and also the cause of decrement in the business.

Six sigma always tries to succeed with its dedications and great efforts. It requires whole commitment with the entire organization and keeps everything in a detailed way so that it helps to understand quickly all the strategies. Abolishing dissimilarities, it saves our money and also reduces the faults.

Some of the most used tools for measuring and analyzing the process such as; Control Charts, 5 Whys, Root Cause Analysis, CTQ tree, Statistical Process Control, Process Mapping etc.

Workflow of Six Sigma :

The methodology of six sigma is based on two principles DMAIC and DMADV.

1. DMAIC :

DMAIC is derived from various words and having their specific meanings.

1. D: D stands for defining the customers requirement and project goals.

2. M: Measures the key point on the recent process going on.

3. A: Analyze the data. It analyzes data from the existing one for their benefits.

4. I: Improve processes. Examine and analyze for the progress.

5. C: Control future executions for the accurate outputs so that errors doesn’t comes again.

2. DMADV :

DMADV is also derived from various words.

1. D: Defines company and customer needs.

2. M: Measures CTQs (Characteristics that are critical to quality). It measures the product ability for growth and production and damages.

3. A: Analyze data from our computation.

4. D: Design the new method based on the preceding move.

5. V: Verify the pattern by a pilot run, applicating the new method and provide it to the owner.

Difference between Six sigma and Scrum :

Six Sigma	Scrum
Six sigma focuses on the method of controlling and similarities through reducing of errors and disparity.	Scrum is based on Agile program management process which focuses to control the software and product development by repetitive progress methods.
It is based on DMAIC and DMADV principle.	It is based on DMAIC and DMADV principle. It is based on Agile principle.
It requires highly changes on the documentation and good strategy.	It only requires changes on the teammate’s interaction and customer partnership.
There is no need of teammates	There is need of good teammates for guidance.
In six sigma there is no need to verify their works to such other departments.	In scrum the process is considered and verified by various departments.
It is ideal for companies working on large scale projects where the requirements and functions/processes are clearly declared.	It is ideal for agile companies which work on projects with changing requirements.
Six sigma improves processes by eliminating waste and variations.	Scrum breaks down the project into short sprints.

Source: geeksforgeeks.org

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Best Tools and Techniques for Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a business theory focused on improving the quality of goods or services an organization produces by reducing differences in the production cycle. Six Sigma managers realize that when a production process comes up short on the strength to make high quality reliably, it will keep delivering damaged products until somebody intercedes and improves the process. Decreasing variation requires steady measurement and estimation as frameworks will in general disintegrate if not held under tight restraints. Throughout the long term, Six Sigma professionals have built up a lot of tools and techniques that address control, and critical thinking and improvement to dispense with imperfections and waste. Here is a couple of the most fundamental. 

Best Tools and Techniques for Six Sigma

1. Standard Work 

Standard work is the documentation of the accepted procedures for any process or undertaking at that given second. It is made and refreshed by the people who accomplish the work. It shapes the benchmark for development and assures measure consistency. 

2. 5S Workplace Organization 

An organized and well-stocked working environment fundamental in the mission to eliminate variety. The procedure includes completing 5 things that all beginning with S in both English and Japanese. They comprise of seiri (sort), seiton (set), seiso (Shine), seiketsu (standardize), and shitsuke (Sustain). 

3. Control Charts 

A process control outline is a chart used to chase how a process carries on overtime. Data points are plotted in a chart with an upper line for the normal (once in a while a middle), an upper line for the upper control limit, and a lower line for the lower control limit. Process control diagrams assist leaders with abstaining from freezing over each up and downswing. They avoid issues made about by just seeing normal outcomes, rather than the varieties of results. 

4. Gemba Walks 

The Japanese word "Gemba" signifies the real place. During a Gemba walk, the manager goes to where work is done regarded for the employees, asks inquiries, and conceivably identify open doors for development.

5. Hoshin Kanri 

Hoshin Kanri (in any case called, Policy Deployment) is a key strategic planning to adjust the organization and guarantee that everybody is progressing in the same objectives. The methodology adjusts the need to accomplish day by day gradual improvement while advancing toward the organization's three to five-year advancement targets simultaneously. 

6. Kanban 

Kanban is a visualizing standard dependent on expanding the progression of goods and work without extra stock or transportation. While at first utilized with physical cards at Toyota, Kanban has now moved to the cloud, and numerous organizations utilize advanced Kanban sheets to follow the progression of work. 

7. Problem Solving and Improvement 

Despite amazing control, now and then issues will occur, or open doors for development will be recognized. All things considered, at least one of the accompanying Six Sigma instruments can be conveyed. 

8. A3 Problem Solving 

A3 is an organized critical thinking approach that gets its name from the size of paper that was utilized before digital tools opened up. An A3 report is the consequence of an improvement cycle like DAMIC or PDSA. 

9. Catchball 

The Six Sigma process of Catchball includes passing ideas starting with one person to others for input and action. The idea (ball) is gotten underway whenever somebody characterizes a test or opportunity. 

10. DMAIC 

DMAIC is a five-stage improvement cycle; define measure, analyze, improve, control. It carries structure to the improvement process and ensures that each change depends on cautious investigation and valuable data. It begins with the Standard Work and repeats whenever a new opportunity exists. 

11. PDSA 

PDSA is an optional improvement cycle that represents Plan, Do, Study, Act. It is an easy version of DMAIC that works best for improvement projects that are not heavy on statistics.

12. The 5 Whys 

The 5 Whys is a well straightforward strategy for getting to the root of the cause. By asking, "why?" the basis of an issue can usually be found in five iterations.

13. Value Stream Mapping (VSM) 

Value Stream Mapping is a Six Sigma apparatus for characterizing and surveying the development of raw materials and work from the earliest starting point of the process to conveyance to the client. It is how the present status of a process is archived, and the reason for figuring out where waste can be dispensed with or esteem included. 

This outline doesn't cover each Six Sigma instrument, yet these are the necessities of the tool kit. You may find that you utilize every one of them, or just a couple, however some the combination will probably assist you with accomplishing less variation, and the ability to respond when challenges emerge.

Source: novelvista.com

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What to Focus on When Picking Six Sigma Software

Putting resources into the software to help your Six Sigma activities is a successful method to ensure that you capitalize on the approach. Setting up a structure for development makes it more straightforward for individuals all through the association to take an interest in, and viably manage ceaseless improvement endeavors. 

Read More: Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Associations that influence Six Sigma software gather more open doors for development, actualize more arrangements, and see a higher ROI for Six Sigma. There are various arrangements available that were either evolved as Six Sigma the board instruments or repurposed accordingly, so we figured it may be useful to recognize the absolute most significant abilities that you should search for while assessing this sort of innovation.

So, How to pick the right Six Sigma Software:

Capture Opportunities for Improvement

Any arrangement you consider should make it simple for each individual in the association to recognize and record open doors for development. This is vital to the Six Sigma approach and ought to be at the core of the arrangement you pick. 

Cloud-based software that is accessible 24 x 7 and on any gadget is the most legitimate arrangement choice. It will make it feasible for individuals to report what they discover from any place they happen to be and for chiefs to react to circumstances regardless of whether they don't occur to be in the workplace. 

The arrangement ought to permit clients to include any records or pictures that may be pertinent to the open door for development and it ought to make a review trail that will store the subtleties of what befalls every open door after some time.

Accelerate Improvement Workflow

When an open door for development is caught in the framework, there ought to be a characterized work process for what occurs straightaway. Who will assess and organize the chance? By what method will the individual who announced the open door realize what's going on with it? 

The best Six Sigma arrangements have savvy cautions and warnings with the goal that the individuals who will survey and support openings are advised promptly when another one is entered. They would then be able to appoint related assignments to the correct individuals and groups. 

When deal with an undertaking begins, extra cautions advise fitting faculty when assignments are finished, or due dates are missed. This quickens the movement of progress.

Measure Impact

Six Sigma brings a proof-based, logical way to deal with business management. Each cycle is just changed after a furrowed assessment and pre-characterized improvement cycle like PSDA or DMAIC. It just bodes well, in this way, to carry that equivalent accuracy to estimating the effect of the progressions that are actualized. 

Your Six Sigma software arrangement should assist you with detailing the effect of your improvement work regarding cost decrease, expanded income, improved consumer loyalty, diminished process duration, or whatever other measurements that are imperative to your business. This will help legitimize the interest in Six Sigma programs, keep representatives spurred, and drive chief commitment.

Visual Management

Numerous Six Sigma strategies include representation. Value stream planning, Kanban, A3, Kaizen sheets, and others all assistance individuals in a flash comprehend complex data in a moment. Search for Six Sigma software that takes visual management to the following level, enabling clients to set up dashboards and reports that rapidly mention to them what they have to know. 

Heads ought to have the option to effectively survey the strength of Six Sigma in the association. Project Managers should see the progression of work and perceive detours right away.

Improvement Broadcasting

Six Sigma requires a collaboration. The methodology takes care of most when it turns out to be important for the way of life and goes past a specific device or strategy to supply each representative with a solid sense that they are crucial to the achievement of the association and the steady improvement is a key duty of each and every person. Six Sigma software arrangements with worked in progress broadcasting capacities help strengthen the significance of Kaizen. This kind of acknowledgment is additionally intensely propelling and something that representatives reliably tell specialists they need more from businesses. 

Six Sigma can significantly change an association to improve things, however, it doesn't generally do as such. Achievement needs chief help, interest in important instruments and assets, and an ability to grasp steady change. Six Sigma software doesn't ensure results, however, it puts the association on the correct balance to quicken improvement, settle on shrewd choices, and gain from past understanding. Choosing one with solid abilities in every one of these territories will help guarantee that you get an answer and an accomplice that can smooth your way toward better business brings about terms of the measurements you care about most.

Source: novelvista.com

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Comparing and Blending ISO9000 and Lean Six Sigma

During recent decades, a number of different methodologies have evolved to help organizations improve quality, speed and efficiency, and better serve their customers. Manufacturing businesses have concentrated primarily on the ISO system, a series of increasingly tough manufacturing benchmarks and requirements developed by the International Standards Organization, and Lean manufacturing (originally known as the Toyota Production System), which focuses on process speed and the elimination of waste. ISO also has been used in the services arena, although service businesses have been more likely to use various process improvement systems, starting with Total Quality Management in the 1980s and evolving into Six Sigma in the 1990s.

Though each of these methodologies was originally viewed as distinct from the others, businesses are now coming to see that there are valuable synergies between them. Many service organizations, for example, have already begun to blend the higher quality of Six Sigma with the efficiency of Lean into “Lean Six Sigma.” The comparison of Lean Six Sigma to ISO9000 standards and the exploration of how the two can be blended for maximum effect start with a review of both disciplines.

What Is ISO9000?

ISO9000 is a series of international standards that identify the minimum activities that a company must have in place in order to control quality. An ISO9000 Quality Management System is a framework that includes systematic methods, documented processes and defined responsibilities. The system should encompass:

◉ A quality system that describes how the company fulfills the requirements for each element of a given standard.

◉ Practices consistent with documented quality policies and procedures.

◉ Maintenance of quality records.

◉ Performance of regular quality audits.

ISO9000 can serve as a platform for continuous improvement by:

◉ Establishing baselines to measure and evaluate changes and improvements.

◉ Clarifying customer and supplier quality requirements and accountability.

◉ Improving staff understanding of factors in their control that affect quality, and renew commitment to providing quality service.

◉ Facilitating the exchange of technical and practical information both vertically in the hierarchy and peer-to-peer.

◉ Facilitating the training and cross-training through improved documentation.

◉ Increasing effectiveness of internal, customer, supplier and regulatory communications through defined and documented responsibilities and interfaces.

◉ Establishing the means for systematic improvement and renewal through formal corrective/preventative action and internal audits.

What Is Lean Six Sigma?

Lean and Six Sigma is the combination of two tool kits around process improvement that are essential to success in a company. Lean deals with improving the speed of a process by reducing waste and eliminating non-value added steps. Six Sigma improves performance by focusing on those aspects of a process that are critical to quality from the customer perspective and eliminating variation in that process.

Lean utilizes “Kaizen events” – intensive, typically week-long improvement sessions – to quickly identify improvement opportunities and goes one step further than a tradition process map in its use of value stream mapping. Six Sigma uses a formal project methodology known as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) to allow project efforts to bring measurable and repeatable results.

Additionally, management engagement and dedicated Champions and Black Belts assure that the prioritized projects are executed as part of a way of doing business. The project benefit matrix process helps identify those most critical projects that will have the largest impact to the bottom-line and can be accomplished the fastest.

Both Lean and Six Sigma are built around the view that businesses are composed of processes that start with customer needs and should end with delighted customers using your product or service.

Adopting a process viewpoint has a profound impact on how an organization operates and how teams view their work. Currently, most companies are organized around functional or “Silo” views: departments and individuals have narrowly defined responsibilities related to specific functions such as accounting, customer service, marketing, etc. Positive change within an organization becomes limited to a defined function and not optimized across an organization. It is not unusual for customer needs to fall between the cracks because no one person owns the process of satisfying the customer. It also is common for many projects to be running at the same time within an organization that sometimes conflict with one another, pull on limited resources, and whose results are not quantifiable in terms of profit and/or customer satisfaction.

In contrast, organizations with process view will assign the Lean Six Sigma resources (Champions, Black Belts, Green Belts, etc.) to map the process across current departmental or functional boundaries. Doing so helps define the interface problems and allows them to propose cross-functional solutions. This process view helps shape decisions and drives project selection based on customer needs, strategic direction, financial requirements and process performance of the company.

Benefits of Lean Six Sigma and ISO9000

The standards, documentation of functional processes, data orientation and passion about quality are all aspects of ISO9000 that fit well with a combined Lean and Six Sigma approach to continuous improvement. Lean Six Sigma would leverage all the standards, documented process, and data already available in your organization. Lean Six Sigma would introduce tools that would help develop process maps with a level of measurable detail that allows identification of non-value-added steps (removal of which will make processes more efficient). It introduces another level of customer focus and a formal methodology (DMAIC) to execute change across functions. It also would engage management and leverage dedicated resources against the projects with the biggest financial impacts to the strategy of the organization. It has been documented that the average Black Belt project saves between $250,000 and $500,000.

These are the additional tools or tactics Lean Six Sigma brings to continuous improvement efforts in an ISO9000 company:

◉ Voice of the Customer as a definition of quality.

◉ Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) as a structured improvement methodology.

◉ Concept of focus on improving critical process “inputs” rather than just “outputs,” so root causes are attacked and not just symptoms.

◉ CEO and P&L owners are trained and actively engaged in process.

◉ Value-based benefit matrix used to select projects specifically to support strategy and near-term results.

◉ Defined organization and set of roles (Black Belts, Champions, Sponsors) creates accountability for improvement.

◉ Critical mass of resources dedicated to process improvement.

◉ Integration of Lean tools to remove waste and non-value added process complexity/drives speed of delivery (Kaizen events and value stream mapping).

Companies with Both Lean Six Sigma and ISO9000

Many companies who started with ISO9000 have added to it the principals and practices of Lean Six Sigma. The standardization of documentation, mapping of processes, collection of data, auditing of process to assure control and the goal of a quality customer experience are important to both. Together they have many synergies and Lean Six Sigma is a natural step in the evolution of continuous improvement at an ISO 9000 company.

What is the benefit of having dedicated Lean Six Sigma resources and executive support? It is a basic premise of Lean Six Sigma that executive sponsorship is the key to success. Most companies who have built a Lean Six Sigma infrastructure have subsequently rotated the people they’ve trained into leadership positions. That approach makes a lot of sense. For one thing the people chosen to be Black Belts are typically dedicated individuals chosen from the pool of “best and brightest” – i.e., top performers from each line of business (LOB). During their stints as Black Belts, they are placed in positions working for the LOB executives and see the company from a strategic and a day-to-day operational perspective. So they are people who are using their extensive business knowledge and Lean Six Sigma skills and tools to become leaders and facilitators of change. That is why leadership training is a large aspect of the Black Belt certification process. At companies like GE, it is a requirement to be Six Sigma-certified to be considered for a promotion.

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ASQ Six Sigma Certification Preparation Steps and What to Do About Them?

What Is Six Sigma?

The Six Sigma methodology was formed in the mid-1980s by engineers at Motorola to improve manufacturing processes. At its core, Six Sigma includes collecting and leveraging data to reduce defects and waste in manufacturing to improve overall efficiency and quality.

The term sigma is a measure of how far from complete a system or producer can get. By Six Sigma standards, companies should reduce manufacturing defects to less than 3.4 per 1 million units.

Businesses use the Six Sigma methodology to develop processes by identifying the errors that lead to defects and implementing new management systems once mistakes have been addressed. The method is most effective with repetitive, assembly line-style operations where individual steps can be isolated, examined, and improved upon.

Learning Objectives of Six Sigma Certification

Here are the essential learning objectives of ASQ Six Sigma Certification:

• Six Sigma certification helps you to improve your value to your employer and its clients.
• It helps you to improve customer comfort and quality of product and service.
• Reduce the process cycle time and therefore gives overall cost saving up to 30%.
• It helps you to identify and improve requirements in the project definition phase.
• Explain how to measure product and process.
• It helps you to do data analysis and hypothesis testing.
• It provides possible improvement actions for the production of variations.
• They are the right fit to obtain organizational aims.
• You will get higher levels of jobs in the organization.
• This certification training improves your chances of Promotion.
• You can make your current job more comfortable by applying the Six Sigma tools and techniques.
• Overall Business improvement.

How to Get an ASQ Six Sigma Certificate?

To achieve an ASQ Six Sigma certificate, a candidate should meet the experience requirement, give his or her competency for the skill applied, and finally pass a written certification exam.

The written exam is mostly of multiple-choice that progress in assigned time and difficulty at each certification level.

For example, the Yellow Belt exam may take 150 minutes. A Black Belt may take 270 minutes. The hands-on part of the certification examination may require you to complete one or more quality project management with signed affidavits.

Who Needs to Attend Six Sigma Certification?

Some of the professional for whom this training is considered extremely relevant are:

• Quality control professionals
• Process improvement professionals
• Production managers
• Process control specialists
• Frontline and factory supervisors
• Management professionals such as HR
• IT and Finance Engineers
• Business Analysts

Begin Your Preparation for ASQ Six Sigma Certification

To prepare for the Six Sigma Certified exam, make sure that you stick to the given instructions.

Here are the moves that will aid you in the process of preparation:

• The syllabus is the most important part, be it any exam, so make sure you go through the syllabus of the Six Sigma Exam. Prepare your regular study schedule to keep your free time and the time duration until the exam date.
• Every topic of Six Sigma requires to be studied given in the study guide, in-depth.
• Scenario-based logical questions are asked in the Six Sigma exams. Therefore, try to describe every thought with a real-time business scenario while preparing for the exam. Not just will this help you in answering the question better but will also help you expand your knowledge.

Tips and Tricks for Preparation ASQ Six Sigma Certification

• Performing exercises for all the topics will assist you in getting a better grip on the issues.
• Solving exam-oriented ASQ Six Sigma sample questions proves to be of great help. You can find them on ProcessExam.com.
• You can contribute to the practice test for Six Sigma. The questions format will give you an idea of what to assume in your final exam. It will prepare for the real exam as the questions are close to the actual exam, making you feel that you are giving the real exam.
• This will make you know your weak areas at the end of every practice test. Refer to Six Sigma study material for several topics.
• Endeavoring Six Sigma practice tests more and more will aid you to score better than every prior attempt.
• Every practice test you take will take you a move closer to pass the final Six Sigma exam. So make sure you score better every time. This will lead you to your aspired target in the actual exam.
• There are available resources for ASQ Six Sigma Certification Preparation.

How Is Six Sigma Used?

Initially developed for manufacturing, Six Sigma can soon be found across many industries. However, just because companies in various sectors have applied, this methodology does not necessarily mean using it correctly or effectively. Six Sigma often fails to yield the results required to justify such a time-consuming and expensive management change outside of a manufacturing operation.

Read: Six Sigma Certification: Importance, Benefits, And Future

To function effectively, Six Sigma needs buy-in from everyone involved. It requires a sizable upfront cost to complete and train employees on the methodology of Six Sigma and its performance.

Employees of all levels must be decreased in the different positions of the methodology as well. Individuals who have made a Six Sigma certification class earn belts to designate their group - Green Belts are for boots, Black Belts are for project leaders, and Master Black Belts are for those in charge of achieving Six Sigma the business.

Conclusion

It will become more comfortable for you to crack ASQ Six Sigma certification if the points mentioned above are kept in mind. Always mind it. The more serious you will be regarding your time, the easier it will be for you to utilize it in the right manner.

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Six Sigma Certification | Career Path | Jobs | Salary

Learning Six Sigma and using its methodologies can have an incredible influence on your future. Being prepared to put Six Sigma certification into your profile gives your promise to improve your business understanding and analytical abilities. Six Sigma certification offers a professional view of the competition.

That can lead to better occupation opportunities and a better salary. Additional design Six Sigma certifications claim so much respect is that they are not easy to achieve.

Obtaining your Six Sigma certification gives you out from the crowd when you are applying for a new job or working on getting a promotion with your modern employer. Six Sigma expertise is in high demand, and hiring managers at companies that have implemented Six Sigma understand the value of certification. They know the commitment it takes to become Six Sigma certified and might not even consider your application if you do not have the credential.

Six Sigma certification shows employers that you understand Six Sigma and that you are committed and motivated. They instantly recognize that you are very knowledgeable in decreasing costs, increasing revenue, improving quality and processes, and gaining employee buy-in.

Six Sigma certification also indicates to employers that you have been trained to be an effective leader. Whether you are a certified yellow belt or black belt, Six Sigma training and certification is all about honing your leadership skills. Employers know that and will compensate you for it.

Job Opportunities for Six Sigma Certified Yellow, Green, and Black Belts

Many companies and government organizations use Six Sigma and need certified yellow belts, green belts, and black belts. Companies like American Express, Boeing, Amazon, and Bank of America have all used Six Sigma to develop methods and business operations.

Read: Will a Six Sigma Certification Help Your Career?

Depending on which belt you have and how much experience you have playing in or leading Six Sigma projects, you could get a job in operations, manufacturing, information technology, quality assurance, and more.

According to Six Sigma, The starting point for marketing and sales is not the salespeople; it is the customers. Six Sigma can be used to uncover the best ideas to build and grow relationships with customers in sales. Great relationships are the key to improving sales.

Yellow belts, green belts, and black belts could be applied as Six Sigma consultants, production managers, quality analysts, business analysts, building engineers, process development engineers, project managers, warehouse operations managers, information technology project managers, data scientists, industrial engineers, process development directors, and more. The list continues on and on.

Six Sigma Job Requirements

Keep in mind, and most employers would not even consider a Six Sigma position that needs more than an entry-level understanding of the Six Sigma DMAIC framework without a yellow belt, green belt, or black belt certification.

Many employers require candidates to have a point of a bachelor’s qualification in business or another related field. Coursework in project management, statistics, accounting, finance, and business administration are crucial to hiring managers.

From an enterprise’s perspective, attaining a Six Sigma certification enables an individual to become vital. An individual reaches the ability to identify and cut repeatable errors.

With a Six Sigma certification, individuals would be able to transform an organization to increase revenue. You will be able to identify and reduce errors. These errors would have brought poor customer satisfaction and damages to the business. Certified Six Sigma professionals can help decrease complaint resolution time, customer complaints, spending, and cost overruns.

Finally, employers are most involved in candidates who not only have a Six Sigma certification but also have a history of ongoing education, training related to Six Sigma, project management, and continuous improvement.

Salaries for Certified Six Sigma Yellow, Green, and Black Belts

Six Sigma certification is a highly sought-after credential among employers, and they are willing to spend top dollar for job candidates that have yellow, green, and black belts. According to the Salary survey, a Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt employed in the United States could make from $40,299 to $76,529 per year, depending on the company they work for and where they work.

Salary reports that certified Six Sigma green belts can make from $51,280 to $98,381 yearly, and certified Six Sigma black belts salaries vary from $62,214 to $118,134 per year. Depending on how many years of experience you have, which organization you work for, and where you work, your salary could reach even higher.

And Last Words

As you can see, becoming Six Sigma certified has advantages for both you and the company you are working for. Six Sigma methodologies are capable of improving your company’s bottom line and making customers happier, as well as enhancing your marketability and chances of quality employment for many years to come.

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