When a project is first initiated, there is no time frame in which a company must evaluate whether or not they are doing it correctly. Lean Six Sigma, however, looks at processes in a different manner. Instead of looking for problems, or negatives in the processes being used, the focus is on preventing problems by identifying opportunities and developing plans to overcome obstacles. Therefore, a company must look at processes from a positive perspective if it wants to maintain its lean Six Sigma certification. If the organization does not view processes from a positive perspective, it will lose its ability to maintain certification, as everyone will be focusing on trying to find ways to make things right rather than fixing problems.
Because of the huge increase in the number of Six Sigma projects in the world over the last few years, there has also been a tremendous increase in the number of Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification programs. In order to be eligible for certification, one needs to have at least three years of experience in a lean environment. This can be obtained by working at a variety of companies and performing a variety of tasks within each of these organizations. It is important to remember, however, that Green Belt and Master Black Belt members do not need to have any experience with green belt certification in order to be a successful Yellow Belt.
If you are an employer who is considering enrolling your employees in Six Sigma, it is important to review the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification renewal process. The Six Sigma Green Belt certification lasts between three to twelve months. During this time, employees will learn new methods of accomplishing project goals, work on improving their methods, and be given a certification that demonstrates their understanding. Once the Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification is completed, the employee will not need to take the exam to maintain the certification.
There are many different reasons why companies evaluate Lean Six Sigma Certification expiration dates. One of the most common reasons is so the organization can get a refresher course as the lean methodology continues to change and evolve. Another reason is so that the employees will be better able to perform their tasks with minimal assistance. When employees complete the course successfully, they will be able to certify themselves as Six Sigma masters and begin working with their teams and departments to improve their productivity and efficiency. By incorporating lean into every aspect of the business from the production floor to the customer service area, lean Six Sigma can dramatically reduce waste, improve the quality and quantity of products or services offered, and create an environment where people’s voices are heard and data is collected so that actions can be taken to address problems.
When the Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification expires, it does not mean that employees do not have to continue their training. Many organizations will re-certify employees on a regular basis, usually at the end of one or two years of training, to ensure the knowledge is still there. At this time, employees would have accrued additional knowledge and experience in the areas of lean management and the new Six Sigma tools and methodology. In addition, if there are any special issues or topics not covered during the first certification year, these areas may be addressed in subsequent years, enhancing the knowledge and skills of the employees. Therefore, even if the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification expiration date is approaching, it is important to enroll in a refresher course, which could help the employee retain necessary skills and knowledge.
There is also the potential for Six Sigma projects to be re-deployed to achieve the desired results. For instance, if a program does not produce the expected impact during the first deployment, it can be re-deployed to achieve productivity goals. This is an ideal situation because employees who have successfully completed a lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification are highly skilled and experienced professionals with extensive project experience. Redundancies and lay-offs are likely to be minimal when re-deployed to meet long-term lean goals.
Because Six Sigma has become such a successful and integral part of the workplace, many organizations are now encouraging employees to take the program and all the benefits it offers. Therefore, if you feel that you may be nearing the certification expiration date, it is important to take the necessary steps to keep your certification up to date and relevant to your role in the organization. Taking the extra time to learn about Six Sigma, gain the necessary skills, and then to apply them will pay off in a positive way when you finally find yourself working in a role where Six Sigma is a significant part of the strategy. Keeping your Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification current is truly the best way to ensure your continued professional success and a bright future!