Black Belts are not required for Six Sigma Black Belt training. A Six Sigma Black Belt is a belt, not a full professorship like a doctorate. It demonstrates to your peers that you have received the level of training and understanding necessary to perform the assigned job. A six sigma black belt is typically hired on a temporary basis, such as a project to train a team of workers in a particular department. If the project requires that you be on site for a few days, you would not need a six sigma certification to get the job. However, if you are hired for permanent positions, you will likely need six sigma certifications.
You might be wondering what six sigma certification involves. Generally speaking, a six sigma certification includes three components. The first component is hands-on training in statistical analysis, planning, and implementing projects using the statistical methodologies taught in six sigma courses. The second component is a written examination that assesses your knowledge on statistical analysis, planning, and implementing projects using the statistical methodology taught in six sigma courses.
The third component is a comprehensive exam that covers all three components of six sigma courses. Usually, you can take these tests online, and they are administered either by local governments or private companies. You will probably have to pass a battery of tests before getting your six sigma certification, but it will be worth it. In addition to the exams, you will likely have to complete a management course, as well. This course will teach you how to properly report data and how to use the statistical methods taught in six sigma courses.
The typical Six Sigma Black Belt question asks you to demonstrate your knowledge of statistical distributions. As you might suspect, this question is related to statistics. You will demonstrate your knowledge by performing a simple analysis, like mean-square distribution or logistic regression, or by creating a graphical presentation of your results. Remember, the six sigma black belt will not grade you on your ability to speak clearly, so do your best to speak clearly and to provide clear answers to the questions. If you cannot explain your answer to a client in layman’s terms, chances are they will not understand it, either.
Another common Six Sigma question deals with estimating the size of a business or project. The basic estimation process takes into account a number of factors, such as potential for growth, cost of doing business, the current market, and what kind of resources the company currently has. As a Six Sigma Black Belt you should know how to analyze the data, determine the range of possible outputs, and select the most appropriate measurement model for your data. You may be asked to analyze the impact of product design, training, and even marketing decisions.
Some Six Sigma black belt questions will require you to create real examples using products from your own business or from the company you are evaluating. Real world examples are important because they show you how to conduct business as an independent contractor. Although you will spend a lot of time applying theory to real data, this will not help you if you do not come away with good business practices. Good examples can be a series of blog posts, case studies, or even a hypothetical problem that you develop in class.
Six Sigma black belt questions are designed to test your ability to apply the theories you have learned. They should not discourage you from pursuing your goal of becoming a Six Sigma certified practitioner. Rather, they should inspire you to explore the possibilities of becoming a leader in your organization. Six Sigma certification is a great way to differentiate yourself from the other employees who have not earned this certification. As you complete assignments and perform evaluations, you will earn additional points. These points can then be reflected in your employee scorecards and executive compensation plans.