In 1986, Motorola created the Six Sigma program to assist businesses in reducing process variations, waste, and repairs. Six Sigma students earn different colored belts as they progress through their training, similar to how martial arts students earn belts. A person must pass a rigorous exam and have at least three years of experience to earn a Six Sigma green belt. He or she will be supervised black belt recipients. Green belts can participate in projects and complete tasks assigned project leaders, but only Six Sigma black belts can actually run them.
Six Sigma is based on the use of mathematical calculations to measure variations and determine how to improve processes. Green belt holders are crucial to the successful completion of projects. They are well-versed in the Six Sigma metrics as well as the Lean principles, which are another method of increasing productivity. Many green belt holders educate their employees on how to increase productivity and improve their manufacturing processes. Often, the Six Sigma green belt is the one who finds the flaws in the production process analyzing it.
The Six Sigma green belt written exam is typically four hours long, contains 100 questions, and is an open book test. The certificate is valid for life, and a person who wishes to obtain a black belt does not need to first obtain a green belt. Six Sigma training courses cover the majority of the theories and definitions on the test. When writing test questions, the Exam Development Committee usually refers to the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge. A person’s chances of passing the exam may be improved studying the most recent version of the Body of Knowledge.
Six Sigma green belts use the Six Sigma methodology to identify a company’s weak or faulty processes, develop an improvement plan, and then communicate the plan to employees. People do not always accept change easily, so convincing them to participate in improvement plans is a big part of the job. Following the implementation of the plan, the Six Sigma green belt documents the progress, analyzes the risks, and assists the black belt in closing the project. All of this work is done a green belt under the strict supervision of the black belt project leader.
The Six Sigma program is taught a number of companies. Some schools offer the program as an online course. Others have campuses where students can stay while they complete their studies. Off-campus training sessions are available at many training centers. Before paying any tuition, an applicant should do some research on the company.