What type of investment is needed to become Six Sigma certified?

Posted on 09/24/2018 by Niko Venev

When business owners and employees seeking to improve profitability and productivity discuss new methodologies, the question, “What is Six Sigma training?” invariably arises. It’s a legitimate question, given that some experts disagree about what it entails. In essence, Six Sigma training gives workers the tools that they need for efficient project management. But what does it cost, what does it include, and what are the benefits?

Six Sigma requirements include streamlining operations and reducing variability. For example, employees using this methodology will aim to reduce defects to no more than 3.4 per million available opportunities. Aside from vastly improving the production process and profitability, Six Sigma can also increase employee morale and contribute to a healthy workplace.

       

Live Six Sigma Instructor-led Courses

Course Title Length Price (USD)
Introduction to Lean Six Sigma 1 day $500
Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt 3 days $1,500
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt 4 days $2,000
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt 5 days $2,500
       

Self-Paced Six Sigma eLearning

Course Title Length Price (USD)
Six Sigma eLearning Bundle 6 courses $825

What Is Six Sigma Training?

Six Sigma training prepares you to function within an environment that follows certain protocols and utilizes experts within your business to your advantage.

While some providers may offer both testing and certification, it’s often in students’ best interests to seek each from independent organizations to ensure the appearance of legitimacy.

When undergoing training, students will learn new, evidence-based ways to:

  • Use data and statistics to ensure consistent, quality production
  • Increase profitability
  • Encourage strong leadership and expertise among employees

Six Sigma training can also familiarize students with the DMAIC and DMADV methodologies.

By employing the DMAIC process for current projects, employees learn how to:

  • Define
  • Measure
  • Analyze
  • Improve
  • Control

The DMADV methodology helps employees handle new projects by teaching them how to:

  • Define
  • Measure
  • Analyze
  • Design
  • Verify

Lean Six Sigma, a combination of Lean and Six Sigma, is a methodology that follows the acronym “DOWNTIME.” It decreases defects and manufacturing waste and fosters a more productive workplace by paying attention to:

  • Defects
  • Overproduction
  • Waiting
  • Non-utilized talent
  • Transportation
  • Inventory
  • Motion
  • Extra processing

Your particular methodology will depend on your project’s status or production phase.

Specific course requirements can differ between companies. Given methodology differences and goals, the Six Sigma training cost can also vary considerably. Generally, however, the Six Sigma training cost can run you hundreds of dollars, though it can differ depending on training type and the color of the belt that you want to obtain.

 

What Are the Six Sigma Certifications?

When attempting to find out the answer to the question, “What is Six Sigma certification?” you’ll first have to understand one truth about Six Sigma: No specific organization oversees Six Sigma training and certification. As such, different organizations may offer varying levels of certification.

Much like martial arts, certification levels are most commonly referred to as “belts” and correspond with colors:

  • Master black belts
  • Black belts
  • Green belts
  • Yellow belts
  • White belts

In addition, some organizations may offer certification titles that have nothing to do with belts, such as “champion.”

When determining which level of certification you or your employees need, be sure to research the particular organization from which you’re getting training. Getting your training from only one organization can ensure that employees and business owners stay on the same page.

If you’re deciding on where to get Six Sigma certification, consider our courses. Taught by live instructors, they’ll offer you basic and advanced skills to earn common belt colors.

 

What Are the Six Sigma Certification Requirements?

Depending on the certification and the administrating organization, requirements to test for Six Sigma certification can be minimal to none. It should be noted, however, that real-world experience with implementing these principles, such as within a job, can help students pass certification exams.

 

How Long Does it Take to Get Six Sigma Certification?

The time it takes to earn certification can depend on the type of belt that you’re studying for and the organization that offers the training. For example, some employees can finish training for a green belt in as little as three weeks, while others may take three months for black belt training.

The certification tests themselves are much shorter: For instance, the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) offers certification exams for black belts, green belts, and yellow belts, and students have up to 4, 3, and 2 hours to complete these tests, respectively.

 

What Does Six Sigma Certification Cost?

The Six Sigma certification cost can vary depending on the belt level test. For instance, IASSC charges $195 for a yellow belt certification exam, $295 for a green belt exam, and $395 for a black belt exam. Generally, if you’d like to lower your Six Sigma certification cost, compare all available certification options, including those offered by independent organizations.







Related Six Sigma Posts:

How Much Do Six Sigma Training Courses Cost?

Public instructor-led Six Sigma course prices start at $500 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced Six Sigma eLearning courses cost $825 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.

What Six Sigma Skills Should I Learn?

A: If you are wondering what Six Sigma skills are important to learn, we've written a Six Sigma Skills and Learning Guide that maps out Six Sigma skills that are key to master and which of our courses teaches each skill.

Read Our Six Sigma Skills and Learning Guide

What Will Six Sigma Training and Certification Cost?

A: The cost for Six Sigma training and certification will depend on the belt color you want to train for, the organizations from which you get training and certification, and the particular Six Sigma methodology to which you subscribe. Since Six Sigma can be loosely defined by organizations, many variables can impact your expenses. Generally, you can expect costs and time requirements to rise in correlation with higher degrees of belt certification, and hundreds can be spent for training and certification for each employee.

More Information on the Investment Needed to Become Six Sigma-Certified

What Are the Basics of the Six Sigma Concept?

A: At its core, the concept of Six Sigma provides a road map for excellence and near-perfection for a company's operations. Using data and statistical analysis, employers and employees can continuously improve upon a company's processes to produce fewer defects, experience fewer variables, reduce waste and costs, increase profits, and improve upon customer satisfaction. The successful application of Six Sigma requires that its proponents flawlessly follow a prescribed methodology, welcome change, and expertly work together. For some businesses, the adoption of Six Sigma can influence the very culture of a company.

More Information on the Basics of the Six Sigma Concept

What Is Six Sigma Certification, and What Training Is Required?

A: Six Sigma training is intended to prepare professionals to take exams for certification, showing that they’re experts in these process management techniques. Training criteria can vary depending on whether professionals are preparing to test for Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma certification and the particular belt color desired. While some organizations and programs bundle training and certification, it can be prudent and sometimes less expensive to get training from third-party providers. Eligibility requirements for certification can be contingent upon the belt color pursued and can include work experience, formal education, or official project completions.

More Information on What Six Sigma Is and How to Get Certified

What Is Lean Six Sigma, and How Do You Get Certification for It?

A: Lean Six Sigma is a methodology that seeks to improve the process of production and, ultimately, customer satisfaction. Adherents to the methodology regularly analyze business processes for unnecessary variances and waste using the mnemonic device “DOWNTIME.” While Six Sigma can focus on the manufacturing process, Lean Six Sigma can be applied to additional aspects of a business and can even affect a company’s culture. Earning a yellow, green, or black belt in Lean Six Sigma consists of two steps: preparing for the certification exam (often by taking courses like ours) and passing the test, which is administered by a third-party credentialing organization.

More Information on What Lean Six Sigma Is and How You Get Certification for It

Is it worth getting Lean Six Sigma certified?

A: There are many reasons to consider getting Lean Six Sigma certified. This type of certification can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs, and it can also help you improve your current job performance. Certification can also give you access to exclusive networking opportunities and resources.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get certified is up to you. If you feel that certification could benefit your career, then it may be worth the investment. However, if you are already performing well in your role and don't feel that certification is necessary, then you may want to forego the extra expense.

Is Lean Six Sigma in demand?

A: Six Sigma is a quality management strategy that has been adopted by many businesses in recent years. The popularity of Six Sigma can be attributed to its proven track record of improving quality and efficiency in organizations.

Despite its widespread adoption, there is still some debate about the demand for Lean Six Sigma training. Some experts believe that the market for Six Sigma training is saturated, while others believe that there is still strong demand for qualified Six Sigma practitioners. It comes down to the industry you are involved with.

The truth is that the demand for Lean Six Sigma training varies depending on the specific industry and job market. In some industries, such as manufacturing, there is still high demand for Six Sigma-trained professionals. In other industries, such as healthcare, the demand for Six Sigma training may be waning as other quality improvement strategies become more popular.

The best way to determine if there is demand for Lean Six Sigma training in your specific industry is to consult with experts in your field. If you are interested in pursuing Six Sigma training, Certstaffix Training can help you find the right course to meet your needs.

Who should take Six Sigma training?

A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best Six Sigma training option for you will depend on your specific needs and goals. However, in general, Six Sigma training is beneficial for anyone who wants to learn more about quality improvement methods and how to apply them in a business setting. This type of training can be especially helpful for those who work in quality assurance or management roles, as well as for those who are interested in pursuing a Six Sigma certification.

Certstaffix Training offers 4 levels of Six Sigma training, depending on the level of involvement with Six Sigma you plan on having:

What are the top Six Sigma skills?

A: There are a number of Six Sigma skills that are essential for success in any role within a Six Sigma organization. These skills include:

Top Six Sigma Skills

1. Understanding and applying the Six Sigma DMAIC process.

2. Being able to effectively use data analysis tools and techniques.

3. Having strong project management skills.

4. Being able to lead and motivate teams.

5. Being able to communicate effectively, both verbally and written.

6. Having a strong understanding of quality management principles and practices.

These are just some of the skills that are considered essential for success in any role within a Six Sigma organization. Individuals who possess these skills will be in high demand and will be able to command premium salaries. If you are looking to enter the field of Six Sigma, or move up within an organization, it is important that you focus on developing these skills.

Where Can I Learn More About Six Sigma?

Six Sigma Blogs

Six Sigma User Groups

Six Sigma Online Forums

Explore Six Sigma Training Classes Near Me:

Certstaffix Training provides Six Sigma classes near me or online, depending on the number of students involved. We offer online courses for individual learners, as well as in person classes at your office for corporate groups. Our trainers are highly experienced professionals with the expertise necessary to help you gain a thorough understanding of Six Sigma concepts and tools. With our courses available online for individuals or in person for corporate groups, it's easy to develop your Six Sigma skills. Start learning today and see how Certstaffix Training can help you reach your goals.

 







 

Start your training today!