Lean Six Sigma or Six Sigma: My Best Choice This Year?

Posted by Kaira Turner on February 22nd, 2023

Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma are quality refinement methods. This is what prospective employers look at when candidates apply for a job in Quality Management.

These certifications might sound similar, but they are different. The primary difference is that Lean Six Sigma and Six Sigma is that the former concentrates on redesigning every business dimension instead of just the manufacturing function that the latter does. So understand the differences between the two to decide which ASQ certification exam training will benefit your future career. 

What is six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a methodology that uses statistics and data analysis to analyze and reduce defects or errors. As a result, it enables institution tools to enhance their capacities, thereby boosting performance and declining process riff.  

It is used as a technological, statistical, and data-driven quality management and improvement strategy to reduce manufacturing variability in business processes.

What is Six Sigma Certification?

It aims to educate individuals about processes and outcomes to reduce waste and defects. The certification process has levels, from White Belt, Yellow Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt and Six Sigma Green Belt certification. 

It uses either the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) or DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze Design, Verify) method to identify and fix problems in the supply chain.  

Interestingly, the Six Sigma Green Belt certification is the fundamental exam every candidate has to pass to get into the world of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge. And their requirements are simple enough.

What is lean six Sigma?

It is a hybrid methodology that is a combination of Lean and Six Sigma. This approach aims to eliminate waste in ways characterized by Lean while also striving to enhance functions by placing DMAIC and DMADV in place.

What is lean six sigma certification?

Lean sigma six certification provides a complete understanding of Six Sigma principles and philosophies (including supporting tools and systems). And the five levels offered by the Six Sigma certification are available under this category with some requirements. 

Head-on comparison between Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma 

Certification Process

As mentioned earlier, both six sigma and lean sigma six certifications start from the white belt and are available till the master black belt.

Candidates can get the Six Sigma certificate from accredited institutions like the ASQ, IASSC, Koenig or CSSC. On the other hand, only the IASSC is accredited to provide the Lean Six Sigma certification.

The duration and cost of each certification depend on the accreditation institute and belt level. So, compare before deciding. 

But before enrolling, equip yourself with ample knowledge from resources, books, practice question papers, and the ASQ certification exam training.

Conclusion

Choosing the proper methodology varies depending on you and your organization's requirements. First, begin learning about the certification and the ASQ certification exam training to select the level and the career you wish to pursue. Then put in hard work for the preparation and finally land your dream job.