LeanSixSigmaBelts

LeanSixSigmaBelts is a certification framework used to recognize proficiency in Lean Six Sigma methodologies. The system combines Lean's waste-elimination focus with Six Sigma's emphasis on reducing process variation, and is widely used across manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries for process improvement and quality management.

The belt hierarchy typically includes White Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, and Master Black Belt. White Belts have basic awareness; Yellow Belts participate as team members in improvement projects and assist with data collection; Green Belts lead smaller projects or serve on project teams, perform basic data analysis, and map processes; Black Belts manage larger, more complex projects, apply statistical tools, mentor Green Belts, and drive project execution; Master Black Belts provide strategic leadership, advanced statistics, training, and governance for Belt deployment.

Certifications are earned by completing training, passing examinations, and delivering real-world project results. The typical curriculum covers DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) or DMADV approaches, process mapping and value stream mapping, statistical methods (hypothesis testing, regression, designed experiments), and Lean tools (5S, Kanban, SMED). Examinations and requirements are offered by several bodies, notably ASQ and IASSC, as well as private providers; credentials may require ongoing recertification.

Adoption varies by industry and region, but the belt system is commonly used to structure training, career progression, and project prioritization, enabling organizations to standardize practices and measure ROI of improvement initiatives.