What is Six Sigma

What is Six Sigma? Developed by Motorola in the 1980s, this improvement methodology was created to reduce errors, waste and variations, and increase quality and efficiency in manufacturing. It has since been adapted for use in other types of business processes, and is today in practice in some of the top companies around the globe, including General Electric, Honeywell and Allied Steel. Six Sigma-driven companies use data to examine, manage, and enhance operational performance by eliminating and preventing flaws in goods and related processes, such as design, management, production, consumer satisfaction and service delivery.

What is Six Sigma from a hierarchical perspective? Taking a cue from martial arts, Six Sigma uses a colored-belt system – with some modifications – to denote an individual’s level of Six Sigma expertise or role in an organization’s Six Sigma strategy:

  • Green Belt is the foundational level of Six Sigma expertise. Team members with this training integrate Six Sigma implementation into their primary job duties. Green Belts are guided by those at the next Six Sigma level, Black Belts.
  • Working under Master Black Belts to apply Six Sigma methodology to designated projects, Black Belts dedicate all of their professional efforts to Six Sigma.
  • Master Black Belts mentor Black Belts and Green Belts. Like Black Belts, they concentrate on Six Sigma implementation. In addition to spending time on statistical duties, Master Black Belts help ensure that Six Sigma processes are applied consistently throughout an organization’s numerous departments and functions.
  • Six Sigma Champions are individuals chosen from upper management by Executive Leadership. Champions are also concerned with enterprise-wide Six Sigma implementation as well as mentoring lower-level Six Sigma practitioners.
  • At the top of the Six Sigma “food chain” is Executive Leadership. This includes a company’s CEO and other members of top management. Executive Leadership determines the overall strategy for the organization’s Six Sigma implementation. They also set the parameters for duties of more junior practitioners.

Thanks to Villanova University’s online Six Sigma training programs, you’ll never again have to ask, “What is Six Sigma?” You’ll gain expertise directly from the top experts in the field, and earn career-boosting Six Sigma certification through the world’s only 100% online certification programs!