Lean
Is a companywide approach to identifying and then eliminating waste using simple techniques. It is a coordinated system of techniques and activities for running business operations. It seeks to maximize customer value while minimizing waste and thereby boosting productivity.
Six Sigma
Is a project-based approach focused on minimizing variation and errors using statistical methods. It is a management philosophy using tools and statistical techniques which are based on facts and figures It focuses on individual ‘breakthrough’ projects and is in essence disciplined problem-solving backed up with statistical analysis.
Lean Six Sigma
Is simply a combination of both. It uses collaborative team effort to improve process performance by systematically removing waste, reducing variation, and driving sustainable continual improvement and substantial quantifiable bottom line savings
The individual level of knowledge and skills required to participate in projects is denoted by a ‘belt status’ (taken from martial arts) – White Belt, Yellow Belt and Green/Black Belt.
Six Sigma White Belt
Is the basic level that provides individuals with information about fundamental concepts of Six Sigma. White Belts can not only assist with change management within an organization, but they can also participate on local problem-solving teams that support projects.
Six Sigma Yellow Belt
Is an individual who has attained a basic knowledge of Six Sigma, but does not lead projects on their own. They are often responsible for the development of process maps to support Six Sigma projects.
Six Sigma Green Belt
Is an individual who has the knowledge and skill to analyze and solve quality problems and improve processes using DMAIC. They are often the people contributing their efforts to a project's data collection and analysis processes.
Black Belt
Is a professional who can explain Six Sigma philosophies and principles, including supporting systems and tools. A Black Belt should demonstrate team leadership, understand team dynamics and assign team member roles and responsibilities.