Lean six sigma combines two modern manufacturing methods that can be used to improve any process, service or business activity.
Lean Manufacturing
Lean (or lean manufacturing), is a system of working that is based on the principles of the Toyota Production System [TPS]. Although TPS was developed in the mid 1940′s, the phrase lean manufacturing only started to be used in the 1980′s [i.e. from the book the “the machine that changed the world” - by James Womack]. Lean involves the whole business working together to continuously improve the business and reduce waste.
Six Sigma
Six sigma is a data driven system based on statistical methods introduced by Motorola in the 1980′s.
The term 6 Sigma refers to the capability of a process to operate within a defined specification. The sigma value is an indication of the level of defects produced. Statistically speaking, any process that can operate at a six sigma level has a defect level of 3.4 defects per million. The goal of six sigma is to process reduce variation to achieve the quality level.
Lean Six Sigma
Companies that can combine both lean manufacturing and six sigma create a powerful improvement strategy that can use to improve competitive edge in an ever demanding environment.
Training courses
There are four main training courses, the choice depends upon the studants knowledge and experience in lean 6 sigma. The courses are termed black belt, green belt and yellow belt. Courses can be taught in either in a class room environment or online via e learning.
The although the methods of delivery are different, the content is the same.
Yellow belt training course
The yellow belt course represents the introduction level into the principles of lean six sigma. The course objectives include a basic understanding of the problem solving, the DMAIC model and the seven wastes.
Green belt training course
The green belt course is more advanced than the yellow belt and involves a deeper understanding of statistical methods for data analysis and problem solving. This course introduces the use of Minitab statistical software. The trainee green belt will generally work on an important business project to gain more experience in the use of these tools . One approved projects are required as part of lean six sigma certification.
Black belt training course
The black belt course builds upon the knowledge gained in the green belt course and uses more advanced statistical techniques such as hypothesis testing, design of experiments [DOE] etc. The trainee black belt will generally work on an important business project to gain more experience in the use of these tools . Two approved projects are required as part of lean six sigma certification. One of these can be the project used in the green belt training.
Online lean six sigma training courses
The material used in on line training may include video’s, web-casts or other electronic media. The benefits include the potential to learn at at own pace , reduced costs [e.g. travel, boarding etc] and the ability to access the learning material from anywhere that has Internet access. Although the online training course is not face to face, access to a Master Black Belt is provided throughout the duration of the course. Having one to one contact with an experienced lean practitioner can be invaluable particularly with a subject that can be so statistically biased.
Class room training
Class room lean six sigma training is normally held in the major cities such as Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, London and Manchester. Within company training can be provided on request. This may be cost effective, particularly with companies with high level of interest. Training includes both practical and theory.
Certification
Lean six sigma certification involves the successful completion of a lean six sigma course, an examination and the completion of either one [green belt] or two [black belt] lean six sigma projects.