As explained in previous posts, Six Sigma training and application is very beneficial for the companies in order to reduce waste and costs that are associated with developing new products. “The Six Sigma belt system is one of the most popular ways to further the learning, training and quality improvement knowledge of employees in the workplace”. In this manner, there are six types of “belts” certifications, each one with a different color regarding the level of expertise.

Next, we are going to explain a little bit more about each one of the different colors certifications and what do they stand up for.

White Belt

This certification can be perform online. This white belt is a course design to provide the most basic level of understanding of the Six Sigma methodology. It provides you a basic definition, history and structure of the discipline. In order to get this certification, you have to watch a video and read 4 articles about Six Sigma´s foundations and after that; you have to take an exam.

Lean/DFSS Belt

Also known as the Lean Six Sigma and DFSS training certification, this belt has the same level as the green belt (The final certification for the program would actually state: Lean/DFSS Green Belt). During this Lean Six Sigma training experience, the students can cover many of the specifics, such as basic DFSS implementation and Lean processes.

Yellow Belt

The Yellow Belt gives you a basic knowledge about Six Sigma but does not let you lead projects on your own. In the majority of situations, one can take responsibility for the development of process maps to support Six Sigma projects and in addition, yellow belts may often be responsible for running smaller process improvements projects, using the PDCA methodology (Plan, Do, Check and Act).

Green Belt

Six Sigma Green Belt training specializes in providing participants problem-solving skills, with an emphasis on the DMAIC model (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control). This certification focuses on the employees to serve as a trained team member within his/her specific work-function area. As follows, the green belt has two primary tasks: (a) to help successfully deploy Six Sigma techniques and (b) to lead small-scale improvements projects.

Black Belt

The Six Sigma Black Belt training and certification provides knowledge of Six Sigma´s philosophies, principles, supporting systems and tools. Like so, this certification boosts team leadership and dynamic skills, develops complete understanding of the DMAIC model related to lean enterprise concepts and helps along with the quick identification of non-value activities.

Master Black Belt

The Master Black Belt certification is the most extensive training in the group to become high-level specialists. With this certification, one can act as mentors and train other individuals to become Six Sigma certified at the Yellow, Green or Black Belt level. As you can imagine, these persons are responsible for making critical decisions in an organization, and play an important role in guiding and training other colleagues.