Six Sigma Blog

Black Belts: Your Own Or Hired?

By Priya Jestin, Staff Writer

It’s good to ensure that your organization deploys the Six Sigma method. However, the easiest part is the decision-making process with the actual deployment becoming a huge commitment. For instance, if an organization needs to ensure that the Six Sigma method is followed to a ‘T’, it may have to make a few sacrifices.

The company may have to foot the bill to train its own people as Black Belts and Green Belts by releasing them from their current duties. An alternative is to hire Black Belts from different organizations and have them lead projects.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages and it is important that company leaders weigh all these pros and cons before taking the final decision. When you decide to get your own employees trained for the purpose, the investment is huge – both in terms of money and productive hours lost. However, the return on that investment in terms of moral and culture change may be even larger.

Another benefit of promoting your own employees is that it improves the employee-employer relationship. Those you’ve short listed for the Six Sigma training know they are trusted by the company and will want to live up to this trust.

Now, let us take a look at the other side of the coin. When you get in an external Black Belt who’s already completed Six Sigma training, you save on huge initial investments. However, you do have to pay for hiring costs to bring in external Black Belts. And you cannot get the Black Belt to work from the word go. They need time and resources to become familiar with your company’s processes. One other disadvantage with hiring Black Belts is that their need to learn more about processes to initiate Six Sigma projects, can lengthen project times and delay results.

Six Sigma certificate from Kaplan University

Here is some good news for working professionals who are interested in leading complex process improvements. The Kaplan University has recently launched its online Six Sigma Certificate program. The certificate program is a self-study program that has two levels. The first level is the Green Belt level that can be completed in six months. The advanced part of the program, the Black Belt level will take about 12 months to complete.

It may be recalled that the methodologies of Six Sigma are intended to help businesses improve productivity and also generate tangible savings. Today more and more companies are interested in improving their processes, maintain quality and yet manage costs. Six Sigma is the answer to their requirements. It is therefore felt that with the growing need in adopters of Six Sigma methodologies, more and more companies will be hiring trained personnel and hence the case for the certificate program. Reliable Plant reports:

“Professionals with Six Sigma certification typically earn nearly 10 percent more than those without certification, according to the American Society of Quality 2004 Salary Survey. The typical salary for a Six Sigma Black Belt is $88,858".

Does Six Sigma Pay?

-- By Pushpa Sathish, Staff Writer

Ever wondered if those obscene amounts spent on improvement operations such as Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing ever paid off? Looking at the pioneers in these technologies like Motorola, Toyota and Ford, one would assume that they did. But what about the average-Joe companies those embark on these ventures?

A survey of 1,500 professionals from a wide spectrum of organizations conducted by iSixSigma found that the dollars poured in did reap in the expected rewards. Among those companies that already had Six Sigma efforts going on:

• Nearly 50 percent said they would continue at the same level of training and staffing next year.
• More than 33 percent said they would boost investment for training.
• At least 44 percent said they would increase investment for staffing.
• Only 17 percent said they would reduce training expenditure.
• Just 8 percent felt the need to decrease staffing levels.
• As much as 46 percent said they had enterprise-wide Six Sigma deployments in place.
• More than 43 percent said they were expecting enterprise-wide implementations of Six Sigma sometime in the near future.

Of those who had yet to test the Six Sigma waters:

• A little more than half, 53 percent, said that Six Sigma featured as part of future plans.
• The other 47 percent had no intentions of going anywhere near Six Sigma.

Six Sigma for IT Management: Now on the stands!

Six experts have contributed to a book on the applicability of Six Sigma in IT management. A first of its kind, the book targets both the initiated and the uninitiated, and looks into the benefits of Six Sigma in the IT environment, the right timing for utilizing the Six Sigma principles, and the practical techniques that will help IT practitioners minimize defects in their business processes.

The book also talks about the ITIL approach, and how this can be combined with Six Sigma to produce the desired result in the IT industry. Published by itSMF, the book is available across the globe at local outlets and on the stores of Amazon.com and Van Haren Publishing.

For more information on this important publication, click here.

Six Sigma Training

There has been an increased interest in Six Sigma in recent years. There are several Six Sigma training processes that will help you learn how poor quality harms your business. Six Sigma training will enable you explore what Six Sigma means and the critical elements of the approach. You will gain an understanding of the new roles that some employees will fill.

Six Sigma training methods will introduce you to a straightforward framework for satisfying your customers, reducing waster and increasing efficiency and quality in your organization. You will be then in a position to examine how you can meet Six Sigma challenges and the skills that is needed for the growth of the organization.

Read my previous post titled "Developing E-Learning With Six Sigma" to know more about E-Learning with Six Sigma.

Six Sigma Online Training

Six Sigma e-Learning (Six Sigma online training) is delivered via the Internet, CD/DVDS, personal digital assistants, television, MP3 players and phones. e-Learning can be passive or interactive and is found in lectures, tutorials and simulations. More than one format is often involved in e-learning programs. In the case of Six Sigma online training, an entire e-learning industry of e-learning service providers has developed to help organizations facilitate the in-house development of the continuous improvement methodology and culture.

Read our previous post titled “Are you Ready For Six Sigma?” to get useful information on Six Sigma.

Asian automotive industry gets Lean/Six Sigma training

There is good news for the automotive sector in Asia. The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) and Omnex Inc. have come together to offer training in Lean/Six Sigma to companies in China, India, Thailand, and other Asian countries.

AIAG, which was launched in 1982 by representatives from auto leaders Ford, GM, and Chrysler, has now become a globally recognized body. Its partnership with leading automotive consulting firm Omnex is expected to usher in an era of top-rung training facilities in Lean/Six Sigma. PowerHomeBiz quotes Dr. Yilong Chen, General Director of Asia Pacific Affairs and Chief Representative in China:

AIAG looks forward to the opportunity to partner with OMNEX in both North America and Asia. We share a common vision to provide consistent state-of-the-art quality education and training that supports the emerging needs of our growing membership worldwide.

We deliver Lean and Six Sigma in Healthcare, says MMTC

At the end of a Lean/Six Sigma healthcare pilot program run by the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), the hospital personnel who received the training have emerged with a positive frame of mind. In terms of figures, the hospitals expect the training to pay back anything between $2.8 and $4.1 million.

The training lasted for eight months, during which participants received inputs on improving processes such as increased surgical capacities, improved patient satisfaction along with faster emergency room care, quicker lab results, and shorter patient wait times for specialty clinic appointments.

Lean and Six Sigma principles are normally applied in the manufacturing sector, but the healthcare pilot program has clearly demonstrated that the concepts can be equally effectively applied to non-manufacturing sectors as well. Encouraged by the results of the pilot program, MMTC has envisioned even more ambitious plans:

[MMTC is] inviting hospitals throughout Southeast Michigan to attend and learn about the benefits of embracing LEAN/Six Sigma principles. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear testimony from one of the alumni pilot hospitals. MMTC will host the session on September 29th from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the headquarters of Automation Alley in Troy, Michigan.

Yahoo Finance has the full report.

Developing E-Learning With Six Sigma

If your company is planning to launch Six Sigma, you must understand what benefits can Six Sigma bring to your organization. The highly skilled and highly paid black belt professionals bring the projects into control, train green belts and put extra amount of input into corporate culture change.

Training and development are the most challenging parts of Six Sigma initiatives. However, black belt professionals efficiently handle those operations. You can maximize your benefits by adopting E-Learning development along with your Six Sigma initiatives. You must keep the following points in mind before going for E-Learning development:

• True cost of your E-Learning Development
• Critical Requirements of your E-Learning customers
• Critical business imperatives that need to be addressed with the E-Learning
• Articulation of your E-Learning vision

Read our previous post titled "Six Sigma in Business Process Management" to know more information on Six Sigma in businesses.

Free Lean Six Sigma Training Government and Military Personnel

Six Sigma training has succeeded in earning a good name in corporate sector. Now it is all set to make its strong presence in the government and military. Kingsrealm LLC has released a complete Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certifiable training course available at no cost to all the US Government, DoD and Military personnel. The company has voluntarily decided to help the staffs that form a core part of the country's support base.

Kingsrealm simplified its strategic Six Sigma methods and procedures so that everyone can get equal benfits from the training. The training is available online with minimal registration requirements. You can register for free training on the company's website. You can read on of our older posts titled "Army gets high payback because of Lean Six Sigma" to know more about Six Sigma training in the US military.

How to Become a Master Black Belt in Healthcare?

The Master Black Belts have been trained as Six Sigma Black Belts. They demonstrate proficiency in statistical tools and expertise in leading and teaching others. Within the healthcare organization, the Master Black Belts train Black Belts and Green Belts. They also help in selecting and mentoring projects. Master Black Belts also guide the organization in addressing quality from a strategic business perspective and focusing on problem-solving efforts to achieve success.

The Master Black Belt successfully leads multiple project teams through the methodologies to closure and subsequent sustainability. You must have heard how Six Sigma is helpful for the healthcare organizations. Do you know that the Master Black Belt is solely responsible for using Six Sigma to help the healthcare organizations meet their strategic objectives? In addition to Six Sigma expertise, it is necessary for the Master Black Belts to acquire advanced presentation, teaching and change management skills.

Army gets high payback because of Lean Six Sigma

The army and a business unit seem like the two ends of a pole. When you talk about the army, it is easy to build an image of a regimented life straightjacketed in a sense of duty and stringent rules and regulations.

Think of a business enterprise, and you can conjure up an image characterized by spot decisions, money matters, and a perennial struggle to cut costs and increase returns. All in all, you would think that running the army could not be farther away from running a business. 

But it is a fact that the army goes through several of its processes from a business standpoint; there is buying and selling within the army, and money is exchanged for purchase of equipment, payment of pay packages, and for improving processes. So there is scope for business processes like Lean Six Sigma to be implemented in the army.

At the 96th Regional Readiness Command in Utah, Lean Six Sigma is not only a reality, but it has yielded positive results. According to depot commander Col. Douglas J. Evans, the Command has used Six Sigma principles to save precious dollars and increased the number of vehicles available for needy soldiers.

The U.S. army has also extended application of Lean Six Sigma to its Recruiting Command to significantly reduce the time cycle for applicants to get through the recruitment process. The army has also successfully used Six Sigma at the Army Material Command, which saw $110 million in savings and cost avoidance.

For more information, click here.

The Six Sigma Training and Quality Toolkit

There is no denying that Six Sigma is a comprehensive and flexible system for achieving and maximizing business profits. It is driven by the customers' requirements and emphasizes on the disciplined use of data, facts and statistical analysis to improve organizational processes. The Six Sigma Training and Quality Toolkit has been designed to address all the above issues. The kit includes the following:

• A Six Sigma Beginners Guide
• A Management Presentation
• The Six Sigma Calculator
• The Six Sigma Fact Sheet
• The Six Sigma Training Tutorial
• A Requirement Template
• The Six Sigma 'Top Down' Notebook
• A Six Sigma Workshop Presentation
• Six Sixma and ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library)

Lean Manufacturing Training Programs

Lean concepts can reduce the downtime on equipment, streamline sales and customer service as well as reduces inventory levels. These concepts also allow free flow of cash. The manufacturing and processing plant is the only piece of equipment on the floor that generates revenue. When it stops, revenue stream collapses. Hence, it makes sense to consider production techniques that focus on adding value and removing costs. In a lean production environment, the workflow focuses more on generating revenue. Lean manufacturing tools are widely used in the UK, European and the US-based multinational organizations. Improvement tools offer training and implementation services in Lean Manufacturing concepts for the industry.

According to Manufacturing Talk -

Many include a 'Rapid improvement Event' - learning by doing, and apply the concepts to the all areas, including administration. We can also provide certified lean training to diploma level under the Competitive Manufacturing Program approved in both countries.

NWACC’s Six Sigma Training

Six Sigma training helps companies to save thousands of dollars and increase the quality and productivity at the same time. NWACC's Corporate and Continuing Education division presented green belt certificates to the employees of some companies. NWACC believes that Six Sigma is a rigorous management discipline that helps organizations systematically achieve significant improvements in their processes. This is an approach used to eliminate errors and improve the business process. Six Sigma training offered by NWACC is customer-centric and focuses on cost-reduction culture. Many companies have acknowledged that NWACC's Six Sigma training helps increase profits and decrease operating costs.

According to NWA News -

NWACC’s next course will begin July 31 and run through Dec. 18. The class meets from 4 p. m. to 7 p. m. Mondays. For details, call Jim Corbin at 936-5160. Those receiving certificates last week from Clarke were Marc Davis, Jerry Makey, Ron Mapp, Terry Martin and Tom Reynolds.

Certification ceremony shows positives of Six Sigma training

Six Sigma is a strategic part of many large companies to save costs and reduce defects in the processing process. The last three decades or so have seen many companies adopt the methodology to improve quality and cut costs. However, the practical benefits of Six Sigma have also been doubted in some quarters. In an effort to remove such doubts, Northwest Arkansas Community College held a certification ceremony involving Six Sigma experts.

Sixteen employees of four companies gained first-hand experience of Six Sigma at work, and came out of the ceremony with green belt certification. The participants in the ceremony "experienced" the case studies of several companies that have used Six Sigma to effectively cut costs and improve business processes, including Franklin Electric, Superior Industries, and Clarke and Rockline Industries. As Chad Smith of Black & Decker explained:

The approach is used to eliminate errors, improve the economics of business process, and transform an organization’s culture to a data-driven, customer-driven, cost-reduction-driven culture.

NWA News reports that NWACC’s next course will begin July 31 and run through Dec. 18.

Six Sigma Black Belt Jobs

Six Sigma Black Belt professionals are high in demand across the globe. Black Belt professionals are usually responsible for managing the planning, facilitation and completion of Lean Six Sigma projects to support the strategic cost reduction objectives of the company. They also simplify and consolidate organizational processes and apply Lean Six Sigma principles & tools to improve overall quality and processes. The salary package of the Black Belt professionals varies from company to company. However, they receive lucrative salary because of their high demand in the market.

Black Belt professionals have the ability to lead, coach, train and mentor teams in the use of Six Sigma tools and processes. They also train and mentor Green Belts in the organization. The expectation from Black Belts is very high. They are often required to partner with process owners and business teams to create a culture that supports process management and continuous improvement in alignment with company strategy. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt with 1 - 5 years experience are often preferred in most companies. They must have the following qualities in addition to their qualification and experience:

• Team Leadership Skills
• Ability to manage and monitor multiple projects
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills

Global Training Partnership between Omnex and AIAG

Omnex, Inc. and the Automotive Industry Group (AIAG) announced the formation of a global training partnership. They will offer Lean/Six Sigma training to AIAG members. As part of the agreement, Omnex will represent AIAG in India with offices in Chennai, Bangalore, Pune and Delhi. In the recent years, Omnex has earned a reputation in India as a provider of Lean/Six Sigma and automotive consulting solutions.

Omnex can offer these Lean/Six Sigma programs for AIAG. Omnex's involvement will benefit the customers in more than one way. AIAG has been at the forefront of automotive industry improvement for years. Omnex's experience and its existing infrastructure in India will help the company to expand its base in the growing automotive industry in India. Omnex, Inc. is a business management solution provider to the semiconductor, high technology and manufacturing industries. The Auto Channel has published an article on the Same Topic.

A not-for-profit association, AIAG's primary goals are to reduce cost and complexity within the automotive supply chain and to improve speed to market, product quality, employee health-and-safety and the environment.

BMG Integrates Six Sigma eLearning Curriculum

Breakthrough Management Group (BMG) announced that it has incorporated its Six Sigma eLearning course material into Projx program tracking system. The new features in this eLearning course will provide users with instant access to online tools training without leaving the system. BMG is a global leader in Performance Excellence and Six Sigma consulting, training and technology solutions.

Projx is an enterprise-wide reporting and information management system that captures, manages and guides the process excellence initiatives of an organization. It helps Lean and Six Sigma Black Belt practitioners to improve the efficiency, quality and productivity of their organizations. Adding the eLearning course to the system benefits Projx customers in reviewing specific topics, skills and tools they need to make the process deliver. PR Web has an article on the Same Topic.

Companies can choose to implement all of BMG’s eLearning courses in their entirety or select exact courses based on their specific Six Sigma roadmap. The new system is available to all existing and new ProjX customers through BMG.

Six Sigma Training from ACC

Six Sigma training has always been useful for individuals, organizations and businesses who desire to excel with top quality performance and aim for best results. The trend has been continuing for more than 20 years. Many big and small organizations have used Six Sigma training from ACC (Alvin Community College) in order to eliminate defects and streamline operations to maximize customer satisfaction, cost-effectiveness and profits. One of the major benefits provided by ACC's Six Sigma training is the selection and prioritization of timely projects that are targeted to address specific organizational concerns.

ACC is now making this training program available in an interactive, blended learning format for distance education or live classroom settings. The program is offered through the Virtual College of Texas and ACC. There are different levels of Six Sigma training that include Black Belt and Green Belt for project managers. Thefacts.com has published an article on the Same Topic.

Six Sigma for IT-Enabled Services

Six Sigma has been proved as a very useful tool in the BPO Units and Customer Contact Centers. It has been acknowledged that these IT-enabled services need a very tight control over processes, as discipline is the key to improved performance. The management approach has to be rigorous, customer-oriented and data-driven. This is very essential to achieve measurable business results.

Six Sigma training has managed to meet all the requirements of IT-enabled services. Now a days, several workshops are being designed and delivered by people who understand the ITES operations as well as Six Sigma methodology. The Black Belt training for ITES provides effective tools and methods in the knowledge and their applications in an ITES environment. Six Sigma in the ITES sector is contextual and experiential. It addresses management issues while improving process performance.

Six Sigma Workshop For Textile Industry

“Improving Dyeing and Finishing Operations Using Six Sigma”, a workshop for QC managers, technical managers, production managers, plant and manufacturing superintendents, department heads, lab personnel, fabric and garment development personnel, R&D managers, process engineers, process improvements specialists, dye and chemical suppliers, and shift supervisors, is scheduled to be held at the AATCC technical Center in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, on July 17-20, 2006, and August 14-17, 2006. The program is being organized by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) and the North Carolina State University (NCSU), with instructions being delivered by Cliff L Seastrunk, Lead Instructor for Six Sigma programs at NCSU. Fibre2Fashion reports:

A registration fee of $4,995 ($3,495 for individual and corporate AATCC members) will include luncheons, breaks, course materials plus the free 6-month trial version of JMP software. Numerous learning activities will be interspersed with lectures to drive home key principles to insure successful implementation of this approach in their project and later within their organization. Refunds will be made if cancellations are received on or before June 30, 2006.

Bryant University to host Lean Six Sigma seminar

Participants of the Lean Six Sigma seminar, which is being organized at Bryant University on April 27, will be introduced to the competitive advantage of Lean Six Sigma implementation. The post-seminar consultation program with Black Belt experts will also add a cutting edge to both profit and non-profit businesses that attend the seminar. Bryant University reports:

The Executive Development Center (EDC) at Bryant University will hold a Lean Six Sigma breakfast seminar on Thursday, April 27, from 8 to 10 a.m. at The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. For information, please contact Paul Dacey at (401) 232-6204, or go to web.bryant.edu/~edc.

MindPro: The new Six Sigma learning tool

Dr Mikel Harry, the Six Sigma pro who has trained leading exponents of Six Sigma worldwide, has launched a DVD-based training program on Six Sigma, titled MindPro. MindPro offers a flexible learning program that has no bounds of workspace: it can be practiced almost everywhere and at any time. Once the course is completed, learners will be certified by Dr Harry's Six Sigma Management Institute. PRWeb reports:

In addition to offering the most comprehensive ‘Six Sigma’ curriculum on the market, the ‘MindPro’ software contains a myriad of additional bonus features including a three thousand page statistical handbook, online help forums and a digital training project. 

Wipro’s Middle East initiative in Six Sigma

Since its entry in the Middle East since 2001, the India-based global IT giant Wipro has expanded its business manifold. The company has practiced Six Sigma since 1997 and assimilated this with other quality management systems such as ISO, TPM, TQM and QS. In a recent initiative, Wipro conducted a day-long workshop on Six Sigma for the members of Dubai Quality Group, a non-profit organization set up by the Department of Economic Development.

The Six Sigma Consulting services of Wipro enable companies to improve processes and identity defect areas which need to be plugged for overall improvement.
Wipro has managed to attract key players in Dubai and other parts of the Middle East as its customers, including Thuraya Satellite Communications, Doha Bank, Qatar Petroleum, and Gulf Insurance Company. AME Info reports:

Ms. Samia Al Yousuf, Manager, DQG said, “Since its inception in February 1994, the DQG has grown to include over 1500 individuals representing over 300 prominent organizations from both, the private and public sectors in UAE. Wipro with its expertise in Six Sigma has contributed significantly and helped DQG in acting as a medium for exchange of knowledge among the business community here.”

Six Sigma certification seminar offered by the University of Miami

To enable corporates all over the globe to implement Six Sigma principles in their business processes, the University of Miami has a certification program in Six Sigma for all belts. The program is offered twice a year, and its objective is to educate participants on Lean Six Sigma management, methodologies, and tools. EWorldwire reports:

In addition, there are several "Introduction To Lean Six Sigma" workshops that are held throughout the year on university grounds as well as on-site for companies that prefer company specific training.

AMC and Lean Six Sigma

The application of Six Sigma and Lean in the United States Army is only natural, because these processes fit in well with the Army's well-rooted principles of reducing wasted time, money, and material. The Army Materiel Command (AMC) first applied Lean in 2002 in its fight against global terrorism, and by 2004, this developed to the application of Lean Six Sigma. Army News Service reports:

“Headquarters AMC has trained almost 200 people since it began its Green Belt, Black Belt, and Master Black Belt programs in Lean Six Sigma in November 2004,” said Ron Davis, AMC deputy chief of staff for Industrial Operations.

Six Sigma trained personnel can lead to higher profits

With the proven results of Six Sigma implementation over decades, companies are now ensuring that they attract employees who are trained in Six Sigma. By doing so, the companies want to be in a better position by having trained personnel to deal with processes that can identity defects in the business process and induct solutions to counter the problem. It can also bring in effectiveness and efficiency in the business unit, leading to a better product or service, and ultimately an increased customer satisfaction.

According to Craig Setter, President of Aveta’s Six Sigma Online, employing Six Sigma trained people can lead to a 20 percent increase in profits. With a sustained effort, companies can climb up the ladder in Six Sigma implementation. PR Leap reports:

It’s no wonder that more and more employers are seeking Six Sigma certified candidates. According to Setter, “Everyday you go to work and have a process of getting your work done. Everyday, chances are, there are better ways of doing it quicker and more efficient. Quickness and efficiency equal a better product or service, a happier customer, and higher profits for your company”.

Six Sigma Green Belt certification from CMTC

Starting March 16, 2006, companies will have access to a green belt certification program, which is being offered by California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (CMTC) at the Pacific Palms Resort in Industry Hills. Market Wire reports that the training will extend over 12 weeks.

The first ten weeks (up to May 16) will comprise the classroom training, while the remaining two will be dedicated for the submission of project reports. The training will be conducted by black belt exponents. At the end of the training and certification program, participants will be able to deploy a process for isolating defects in the business, implement solutions to remove those defects, and thus contribute to the improvement in quality and customer satisfaction.

Green belt training can be oriented toward each rung in the management, and thus be used effectively by, among others, project managers. While black belt training offers more advanced statistical capabilities, green belt training focuses on using problem-solving tools and techniques. Such training can be productive for companies that have a strong commitment to Six Sigma processes.

Various training programs are being offered, including online courses. The certification offered by CMTC will equip trainees to induct a new approach for lifting the quality of their respective business units. The trainees wil be able to leverage the expertise of CMTC in the arenas of strategic business, lean enterprise, information technology, quality and supply chain management.

Event: Web conference on Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma benchmark study

A Webcast being organized on January 11, 2006 on a Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma benchmark study. Participating in the conference will be author Terry Burton, President of The Center for Excellence in Operations; Joyce Swanke, CFPIM, Six Sigma Black Belt; and Traci Purdum, Associate Editor, IndustryWeek. IndustryWeek reports:

Join author Terry Burton, President of The Center for Excellence in Operations, for a Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma benchmark study presentation based on a series of regional workshops that were recently held across the United States. Hear which "burning platforms" and "leaky buckets" were identified by peers in your industry as needing the most attention.

Research and Markets introduces Six Sigma E-Learning course

Research and Markets has initiated an E-Learning course introducing the Six Sigma methodologies and concepts. The course will cite organizations that have implemented Six Sigma rules, and its main objective is to build awareness of Six Sigma concepts among employees. Business Wire reports:

The Introduction to Six Sigma course focuses on providing an introduction to Six Sigma methodologies and related concepts. The course aims to create not only a basic level of awareness on Six Sigma and the DMAIC process but also the benefits that could be reaped by utilizing Six Sigma.

Quality training programs from BMG

BMG has a team of Six Sigma training educators who inculcate the best environment for understanding the concepts presented in classroom discourses. Participation in a BMG training course ensures the best output, whether it is training in Six Sigma processes or in Lean, TRIZ, and DFSS principles.

BMG follows the Adult Learning Model in imparting training through corporate programs, public classrooms, e-learning, and hybrid programs that combine corporate training with e-learning. BMGI.com reports:

To maximize learning, all of our classes feature hands-on exercises, workshop time, comprehensive course materials, professional guidance, [and] small class size.

Buzz Contact Centre Solutions takes to Six Sigma

Buzz Contact Centre Solutions, an outsource call centre solutions provider in the Middle-East region, has decided to implement Six Sigma practices in its management system. Towards this effort, the company recently held a training program on Six Sigma principles for its staff. The program was spread across 12 days, and was conducted by TQMI and Motorola University.

Head of Buzz, Tarun Gulati, declared that 25 of its staffers successfully completed the Six Sigma Green Belt training and will soon be certified Six Sigma professionals. In course of the training sessions, the staff have picked up problem-solving, project and crisis management, and technical improvement skills. AMEinfo.com reports:

Added Mr. Gulati: 'Our objectives were three fold—to convert all our employees into high-performing team members, instill values of team leadership and integrity; and prepare them for the future. Motorola's qualified and experienced trainers are some of the best in the world for Six Sigma training and they have met our expectations.' 

Solectron organizes events to spread Lean and Six Sigma implementation among suppliers

Solectron, a company engaged in the production of electronics manufacturing and integrated supply chain services, has adapted Lean manufacturing initiatives. The company has followed this with the organization of two events to establish Lean as part of the supply chain. One of the events, the Supplier Day conference, brought together hundreds of suppliers who were encouraged to adopt Lean manufacturing.

In its other event, Solectron declared the facility at Penang (Malaysia) as the winner of the Global SPS Kaizen competition. Marc Onetto, Solectron's executive vice president, explained the adoption of Lean Six Sigma by Solectron, and expressed the view that the principles could now be transmitted to the suppliers. The Supplier Day event introduced Solectron's Lean supplier program. TMCnet.com reports:

The one-day event included breakout sessions on Lean 101, an introduction to the Solectron Production System; Solectron's Lean supply chain program; an overview of increasing customer value through design and engineering for Lean production; and Lean deployment from a supplier perspective.

Read More: Solectron Drives Lean Six Sigma Manufacturing to its Suppliers; Honors Sites for Quality Achievements; Supplier Day Focuses on ''Embracing Lean'' Theme

Six Sigma implementation: the methodology

There are several instances where an organization has failed to meet set deadlines and quality expectations. Real-world examples from the Indian city of Bangalore have shown that even companies who have received quality certification fail to live up to client expectations. The major problems faced by these organizations include inadequate project planning, defects that are not detected before the product is handed over to the client, and rework required to fulfill the expectations of the client. An answer to such recurring problems is Six Sigma methodology.

Express Computer reports that the companies based in Bangalore accepted the services of a consultant who provided training on the Six Sigma principles and their implementation. Following such training, the companies were able to enhance their performance and clear the problem areas they faced earlier. These case studies show that Six Sigma delivers several advantages, such as lessening the amount of rework, adhering to preset schedules, and enhancing revenue for the company. There are various means of implementing Six Sigma, but the most popular is the DMAIC method, which can be implemented in various phases. Express Computer reports:

Application of Six Sigma methodology improves the efficiency and effectiveness of the processes resulting in customer satisfaction. Satisfying customers by delivering a better product and services without time and cost overrun contributes to increase in volume of business.

Read More: Business improvement with Six Sigma

Siemens provides Six Sigma training to employees and suppliers

The Electronics Assembly Systems Division (ES) of Siemens Logistics and Assembly Systems (L&A) keeps the needs of the customer foremost in its business processes. Towards this objective, Siemens implements the Six Sigma method. In the process, the company has been able to increase its profit margin and also cater to the satisfaction of the customer.

Using Six Sigma, Siemens has been able to rise above cultural barriers and communicate with its global customers. The Six Sigma program implemented by Siemens is founded on a hierarchical structure of proficiency levels, and the methodology is effectively transmitted to all departments. As Quality Management Director Herbert Hofmann notes, the important thing is to inculcate the importance of Six Sigma implementation to all employees—only then will the program be successful. Besides the employees, the Siplace team has offered the Six Sigma training program to its suppliers as well. EMSNow.com reports:

Problems are analyzed methodically and solved with the help of people who are best qualified to do the job. Six Sigma creates a certain discipline within the enterprises that practise it and makes this analytical approach a mandatory part of all thinking.

Read More: Singapore plant ships high-end electronics assembly placement machines

Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg to receive Six Sigma training and consultation

Companies across Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg are to receive Six Sigma training services later this year. The service is being provided by Pivotal Resources, a leader in Lean Six Sigma strategy and implementation, and Ideas@Work, a process management consultancy based in Brussels.

Representatives of both firms are confident that the joint effort will be able to deliver valuable inputs to the companies. To start with, the program will make the Six Sigma training products available for individuals and small groups, and conduct several interactive workshops. The specific training schedule announced by Pivotal Resources and Ideas@Work include a one-day class on October 18, followed by sessions between October 18-21, November 22-25, and December 12-16. PR Newswire quotes the spokespersons for the two companies:

"Both our organizations share the same level of commitment to deliver industry leading process improvement training, making this partnership a perfect fit," said Eddy Janssen, founder and Managing Partner for Ideas@Work. "Our extensive Lean Six Sigma curricula and respected position within the global marketplace coupled with Ideas@Work's local experience in the Benelux region enables us to deliver the highest level of value to our customers within the area," said Rowland Hayler, Director of International Operations for Pivotal Resources.

Read More: Pivotal Resources and Ideas@WorkForm Strategic Alliance to Offer Lean Six Sigma Capabilities in Benelux   

Stringent implementation of Six Sigma and a defined accounting policy: key to Six Sigma success

An article published in Industry Week recognizes the popularity of Six Sigma programs for improving business activities, but warns that the implementation of Six Sigma can backfire in certain situations. Two such situations are highlighted in the article: the different levels of intensity in the implementation of a Six Sigma program, and miscalculations in the savings that actually result from Six Sigma implementation.

For the first anomaly, the article gives an example of a company that brought in Six Sigma with a properly formulated strategy and well-defined leadership, and another company which only had inadequate training sessions before ushering in Six Sigma. In the latter scenario, the results of Six Sigma implementation were naturally not satisfactory, and this resulted in only limited savings for the company. A more stringent training program by the same company in the following year brought in better results.

The other loophole (miscalculations in Six Sigma savings) can also be tightened if companies put a clearly defined accounting policy in place to calculate the savings on account of Six Sigma. Industry Week  reports:

To prevent these situations from occurring, organizations need to define the policies and procedures to calculate Six-Sigma savings and identify a review and validation mechanism using finance and accounting. Initiatives should be monitored in the same ways capital projects and other major efforts are monitored. The appropriate financial adjustments should be made to reflect the savings in future budgets to support the program's institutionalization.

Read More: Six-Sigma Pitfalls

Successful Training Programs a result of Six Sigma Component in the Training: iSixSigma survey

Business Wire reports from Seattle on a survey that shows a definite link between successful training programs and Six Sigma. The survey, which is to be published in a forthcoming issue of  iSixSigma Magazine, shows that 85% of the respondents who felt satisfied with their corporate training program had Six Sigma as an essential part of the training.

Against this, a meager 3% of the unsuccessful training programs had Six Sigma in their curriculum. Even post-training, the trainees who had Six Sigma in their program were able to move to new leadership positions. Michael Cyger, CEO and publisher of iSixSigma Magazine and iSixSigma.com, views this link between Six Sigma and successful training programs as expected; the link is directly related to the skill sets that Six Sigma inculcates in the trainees. Business Wire quotes Cyger:

We all want to work for leaders who make good decisions based on data not emotions, who share responsibility, who know how to generate results. We want leaders who are enthusiastic and passionate about what they're doing. Those are exactly the skills and qualities that make Six Sigma professionals most successful and that Six Sigma helps build in future leaders.

Read More: iSixSigma Magazine: Leadership Programs that Include Six Sigma are Six Times More Effective, Survey Shows; 60% of Six Sigma Professionals are Promoted to Leadership Positions

Book Review: Lean Six Sigma for Service

Michael L. George provides an insightful look at how to incorporate Six Sigma into a company's service operation.  This allows for both faster and more efficient work.  The book elucideates what have historically been quite sticky Six Sigma concepts by using real-world case studies such as one which focuses on Lockheed Martin and another concentrating on Bank One.  The real appeal of this book, however, is the fact that the book is written with little of the jargon and pretense that catagorize much of the literature on Six Sigma.  Furthermore, it brings to the table not only the benefits of the Six Sigma process but also incorporates some of the best of the Lean methodology which increases the speed at which processes are completed. Combined this allows for more consistent, faster, and more measurable quality in virtually any business' service sector.  The only major complaint regarding this book is that it gives you very few tangible tasks which you can implement.  On a general level, this somewhat theoretical book gives you a great idea as to how Six Sigma can be applied to the service sector, however it leaves to feeling like it would take more reading to actually go through with the process yourself. MediaGab reports:

However, I would have appreciated some down and dirty, nuts and bolts how-to. After all, the book jacket promises to teach you how to shave dollars from the bottom line.

Read More: Lean Six Sigma for Service: How to Use Lean Speen and Six Sigma Quality to Improve

Book Review: What is Six Sigma Process Management

Rowland Hayler of Pivotal Resources and Michael Nichols of American Express have recently come out with a book entitled, What is Six Sigma Process Management?  The book, published by McGraw Hill, offers new insights into how Six Sigma Process Management (SSPM) can be used to attain higher levels of leadership within the corporate environment.  The book confronts issues such as how to continually reassess, confront, and satisfy customers expectations.  While the book is certainly no substitute for applying an in-depth Six Sigma program it does provide the uninitiated with a straightforward guide for Six Sigma Process Management implementation.  This, like other recent books on Six Sigma, provides an important resource for companies who are unable to make the heavy financial investment required for a full implementation of Six Sigma.  Yahoo Business Reports:

"The book details a proven methodology for helping business leaders determine which efforts will most positively impact their customers, employees, and shareholders."  As Hayler continues, "SSPM provides a system that guides people on what to improve first and how to establish a portfolio of the best improvement efforts for their business."

Read More: New Book Release: 'What is Six Sigma Process Management?' by Rowland Hayler of Pivotal Resource

BMG Brings Six Sigma to South Africa

Despite the notorious reputation of individuals like Jack Welch and Jeffery Immelt, both of whom attribute much of their success to the Six Sigma efficiency program, there has been little adoption of the program internationally.  Nowhere is that more true that in South Africa.  Until recently there has been little alternative for companies interested in learning the skills necessary and hiring consultants to implement Six Sigma.  Recently, however, Breakthrough Management Group (BMG) Africa has begun providing conferences, training, and technology solutions in Six Sigma.  The company has literally decades of experience in applying and teaching on the principles of Six Sigma.  With clientele ranging from small firms to multinational corporations and spread throughout the world, there is little question that the company has experience necessary to transfer the skills to South Africa. Cape Business News Reports:

BMG's South African operations are guided under the directorship of Salomon Erasmus and consist of a team of highly qualified, experienced Six Sigma practitioners.

Read More: How to get to grips with Six Sigma

McNerney Leaves 3M for Boeing and Brings Six Sigma With Him

James McNerney was brought over from GE four years ago to take the helm at 3M.  With him he brought a disciplined management style that included a deep incorporation of the Six Sigma program.  A program that played a key role in achieving the company's best year to date with record sales of $20 billion in 2004, a full $4 billion up from 2001.  The growth was achieved through high cost cuts of 10% and a strict implementation of Six Sigma.  Because of this phenomenal growth Boeing coaxed McNerney to come and take over as its new CEO. 

McNerney is not without his critics, however, as some former executives have argued that McNerney focused the company too much on Six Sigma and did not leave enough room for innovation and creativity. Seattle Post-Intelligencer Reports:

"He has been criticized for not wanting to listen, and I don't think that is correct," said Guehler, a retiree living in Florida.  "He likes to have people present things to him with facts, and in a positive manner."

Read More: McNerney's 3M career marked by disciplined style

Book Explains Simply the Six Sigma Way

One of the primary difficulties inhibiting the wider adoption of Six Sigma has been its relative exlusivity to the top-tiers of the corporate world.  Implementing the efficiency strategy has required that individuals undergo extensive and quite expensive training, an often prohibitive entry gate for small companies and their executives.  A recent book by Craig Gygi entitled Six Sigma for Dummies cuts through that barrier, however, by offering readers a simple straightforward interpretation of the Six Sigma process.  Initial sales figures have surpassed expectations indicating the strength of demand for a service able to cheaply explain the most basic benefits of the process.  Salt Lake Tribune Reports:

"[Six Sigma] is going to be build right into the fabric of business," he says. 

"The changes I made wer permanent - the were sustainable," she says.  Six Sigma helps you make decisions based on data instead of gut feeling."

Read More: Workplace Six Sigma-sense

Book Review: Six Sigma For Dummies

One of the biggest inhibiting factors preventing wider Six Sigma implementation is the percieved complexity of the program.  Most managers are simply clueless about the process, preventing them from seriously examining Six Sigma as an alternative for their company.  Fortunately, Six Sigma for Dummies rectifies this by explaining in very straightforward, albeit at times simplistic, language the nature and benefits of Six Sigma.  In addition, a number of small to mid-sized companies have been unable or unwilling to make the capital investment necessary to incorporate the Six Sigma process.  This book will allow the novice to incorporate some basic Six Sigma attributes so that they can percieve for themselves the benefits of the program and ultimately incorporate it to a deeper degree.  azcentral.com Reports:

"There is a huge latent demand for this," lead author Craig Gygi said. "The industry has purposely kept the mystique of Six Sigma so it would be exclusive."

Read More: Dummy up . . . smaller is better . . . book preview

Popular Advice Column Spreads Six Sigma Knowledge

The popular customer service advice column "Ask Mr. Lee," is now headed for wide distribution, fueled by demand.  The column is known for the straight-forward, easy-to-comprehend tips for business process improvement, call center performance, and data analysis application.  Unsurprisingly, the single author, Roger Lee, credits much of his business acumen to his Six Sigma Black Belt training.  Business Wire Reports:

"It doesn't take a PhD to improve call center performance," said Roger Lee, a Six Sigma Black Belt. "As Deluxe demonstrates, the most important thing is a true commitment to the customer and a drive for improvement. My job is to provide tools to help companies reach their goals and keep getting better."

Read More: Customer Response Sends etalk's ``Ask Mr. Lee'' into Wide Distribution; Popular Advice Column Tackles Tough Call Center Questions at www.etalk.com

Voltaix Inc. Incorporates Six Sigma to Improve Customer Relationships

With the profits attainable through Six Sigma becoming ever more apparent to companies in a variety of fields, Voltaix Inc announced this week that some fifteen employees have recently attained Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.  Voltaix Inc., a leading manufacturer of chemicals and gasses, believes that their investment in training will reap dividends through improving customer support relationships and product solutions.  In addition, the company, like most Six Sigma implementers, hopes to attain greater product consistency and thus profitability.  mysan.de Reports:

"Six Sigma will enable the Voltaix team to deploy problem-solving tools to improve product consistency and usability, which translates to yield and throughput improvements for our customers," commented Dr. Matthew Stephens.  "Yield and throughput are more important than ever, given the high capital equipment expenditures associated with 300mm wafer processing.  Further, new technology integration issues drive the need for closer customer-supplier relationships.

Read More: Voltaix Undertakes Six Sigma Initiative to Enable Deeper Customer Relationships

Survey Shows Six Sigma Delivers Profits

While the value of Six Sigma implementation is already widely known, the monetary benefits for a single company to train an individual are rarely quantified.  A recently released survey entitled The Customer Dashboard, however, attempts to rectify this gap.  It indicates that 86% of Six Sigma Black Belts contributed $500,000 to annual performance goals, while almost one in three (32%) contribute $5 million.  The survey also touts the benefits of Six Sigma on an anecdotal basis, allowing the effects of the program to be seen within a single company.  PR Newswire Reports:

Six Sigma implementation enabled a top company to save $400 million in costs- translating into a profit of $100 million. The long-run annual goal is to save $7 to $10 billion, resulting in an earnings increase of $5 billion.

Read More: Lean & Six Sigma: From the Top to the Troops - Case Studies in Excellence