Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Training and Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training content

In Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training, you will learn to understand the Lean Six Sigma philosophy and gain the skills to apply Lean 6 Sigma to successfully complete demanding process improvement projects. The training integrates Lean and Six Sigma into a single, flexible approach. You will also learn a wide range of change management techniques (so-called "soft skills"). The training also includes the possibility of Black Belt certification.

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Our Black Belt training and certification courses meet/exceed the quality and content requirements set by the CSSC. We also follow the contents of the international standards ASQ and IASSC BoK ("Body of Knowledge"), except for the rarest methods and tools. You can find out more about the content requirements of the standards at the link: Black Belt certificates and requirements.

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At Black Belt level, the training covers the following topics, among others:

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When, why and how to use Lean Six Sigma

• Introduction to the effective use of Lean and Six Sigma in different types of projects and organisations.  
• Project management: 12-step DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control).

Define

In the Define phase, an Improvement Project is selected and defined using various tools such as Voice of the Customer (VOC), Critical to Quality (CTQ), Proactive Customer Requirement Definition, CTQ tree, KANO model, Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Project Contract and Risk Matrix.

Measure

In the Measure phase, the project objective is operationalised and the reliability of the measurements is tested by means of methods such as: process description ("SIPOC"), operational definition of the measurement unit, analysis of the measurement system for different types of data ("GR&R", "Kappa") and determination of the adequate sample size for different situations,

Analyze

The Analyze phase measures process performance using methods such as: various graphical analysis methods, process capability analysis, control charts, normality test, process loss forms, and root cause analysis to improve the process through value stream mapping and hypothesis testing.

Improve

In the Improve phase, an optimal solution for root cause elimination is developed and tested using statistical analysis and Lean solution methodologies, e.g. hypothesis testing for a wide range of situations, various regression analyses, tools for situations with a lot of data and/or partial data gaps, multivariate Design of Experiments (DOE) and a wide range of Lean methods such as Push/Pull processes, 5S, Kanban, Poka-Yoke, Kaizen, SMED, Jidoka, Andon, Tahdistin and Heijunka. You will also learn various methods for prioritizing and validating solutions.

Control

In the Control phase, solutions are rolled out so that the results are permanently implemented, creating a culture of continuous improvement. We use methods such as: standardised work instructions, critical performance indicators, visual control of work, performance monitoring, Out of Control Action Plan (OCAP), Lean day-to-day management, data management and how to create a cycle of continuous improvement in the organisation.

Change Management

Change Management is an integral part of all DMAIC phases of our trainings:

• Identifying and preventing project risks using the Lean 6 Sigma management model
• The role of the Black Belt at different stages of group formation
• The different roles of team members and their effective use
• Stakeholder analysis
• Use of different levels of communication
• Managing resistance through different ways of influencing
• Providing constructive feedback
• Facilitation in the DMAIC project

The training is divided into six training parts over a period of several months. In order to get the most out of the training, we recommend that you have your own improvement project during the course. In your project, you can immediately apply what you have learned in your own work environment. You can also choose your project after learning the first part of the training. You can check out our blog for tips on choosing a project: Advice on choosing a project.

An innovative and diverse learning experience

Our Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training stands out with innovative teaching methods, the latest digital tools and a unique game simulation. The training focuses on rich, participative and interactive learning designed to meet the needs of diverse learners.

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Here are some of our key strengths:

1. A practical Lean Six Sigma project - ready in training

In collaboration with an international game developer, we have created a new way of learning that replaces traditional manual simulations with a more realistic digital simulation.

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In a game simulation, participants form a training team that together lead a company and improve its processes. The simulation runs alongside the theory of the training, so you can immediately test the methods in practice. The real-time data generated by the simulation allows for data analysis and decision-making practice in a variety of data-related situations.

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Simulation is an integral part of almost every training day, while providing a fun team exercise to facilitate learning. At the end of the training, a documented example of the simulation project has been completed and serves as a concrete basis for further work. You can read more about the simulation on our blog: interactive simulation.

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2. Certified Master Black Belt trainer, accredited training and certification

Our instructor in Finland is certified Master Black Belt DI Marja Jaatinen-van der Harst. Marja has more than 20 years of experience in applying Lean Six Sigma widely, from large international companies to Finnish SMEs in industry, the public sector and various service sectors.

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We are proud to be the only CSSC-accredited Black Belt trainer and certification organisation in Finland.

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3. Personal project coaching

The Black Belt training includes 4 hours of personal project coaching, where an experienced Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt provides guidance both between and after the training sessions. The coaching helps participants to apply what they have learned to their own projects, focusing on choosing the right techniques and addressing potential "blind spots". This support improves project results, speeds up project turnaround and helps participants to achieve certification.

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4. User-friendly training material

Our training includes comprehensive training material in Finnish in a digital learning environment. Theory, templates, ready-made primers, videos and exercises are integrated into a learning platform that supports clear and varied learning. This structure of the material allows for varied learning and frees up time for in-depth training during the training days. The learning platform also facilitates preparation and revision after the training. Read more about our learning platform .

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During the training, we will use the Minitab computer program, which is a key tool in Lean Six Sigma projects. We recommend that you bring your own laptop and purchase Minitab. You can start with a 14-day free trial license at Minitab.com or purchase a license for the duration of the training. Contact us if you need assistance with obtaining a license or other questions about the program.

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5. How the training is delivered according to Lean principles

Our training follows Lean principles: we focus only on the essentials, using effective teaching methods, extensive support material and experienced Master Black Belt trainers. This enables us to deliver accredited Black Belt training efficiently and comprehensively in just 13 days.