What is Six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a process improvement methodology that was put in place by Motorola in the 1980’s. It combines a set of tools and lays out a structure for completing projects that reduce defects in the product or service in order to better meet the customers’ requirements. This, of course, increases profitability and customer satisfaction. The tools include rigorous statistical analyses.

What is a Black Belt?

The level of expertise with Six Sigma tools and experience with them is represented in levels of certification. A certified black belt has demonstrated their competence through training, testing, and practical application of the process to complete real-world projects.

What makes a good Six Sigma project?

Black belt projects make sense when there is an opportunity to add significant value to the business. The opportunity is to reduce a “defect” in the product or service by identifying and addressing the root cause of the defect. Six Sigma techniques are most applicable when the solution to the problem is not yet known.

Where does Lean fit in?

Lean production refers to a set of techniques used to eliminate waste and increase efficiency in processes. Often Lean tools can be combined with Six Sigma tools. The resulting methodology is sometimes referred to as Lean Six Sigma. At Black Belt on Demand, we integrate the appropriate Lean and Six Sigma tools into each project to make sure that the most effective approach is utilized to address your specific challenge.