Many PMPs want to further distinguish themselves by adding the Six Sigma credential to their toolset. But what is Six Sigma all about, and how does Six Sigma certification work?
Six Sigma definitions vary a bit, but they all involve the concept of quality. All at once, Six Sigma is a philosophy, a set of tools, and a methodology. See “Differing opinions on the definition of Six Sigma” for more detail on this.
In a very formal Six Sigma organization, there are multiple levels of participants: Black Belt, Green Belt, Master Black Belt, Yellow Belt, White Belt, and Champions and Executives. The American Society for Quality (ASQ) provides basic descriptions of these roles in the page “Belts, Executives and Champions – What Does It All Mean?”
However, there are 2 basic Six Sigma certification levels: Green Belt and Black Belt. The American Society for Quality is the leading authority in the quality field, but there are multiple organizations that provide training and give their own certification, which stands on their reputation and on recognition of the name ‘Six Sigma’.
The Green Belt certification is the entry level certification for the field. The Green Belt analyzes and solves quality problems and is involved in quality improvement projects, and in a formal sense works under the supervision of a Black Belt. The Green Belt certification is based on the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge (BOK), and knowledge areas required and covered in the ASQ test are outlined in a description of the Six Sigma BOK. Applicants for the test are required to have 3 years of experience within this BOK. See ASQ’s Six Sigma Green Belt certification for further details.
The Black Belt certification is the advanced level Six Sigma certification. Black Belts have a greater depth of knowledge of all aspects of the DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) and other process models of Six Sigma. In addition, Black Belts must be able to handle leadership roles in the context of Six Sigma projects. Six Sigma Black Belt certification requires that you complete at least two Six Sigma projects and submit a project affidavit for one. Knowledge required can be found in the summary of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge. You may also want to check out the full Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge download. See ASQ’s Six Sigma Black Belt Certification for further details.
Network Marketing Software Basics
By: Todd Wesley | 29/12/2009If you are involved in a complex or even a simple global business then you need to take a look at network marketing software to automate and integrate the systems at your business. But, with so many solutions available, where do you start? Here are a few network marketing software basics for you to consider.
Project Accounting Software: Buy it or Not?
By: Ann Rand | 28/12/2009Benefits and limitations of project accounting software for project-based organizations, including how to know if you need it, and how to select the best accounting and project management software for your needs.
Choosing the perfect wedding marquee
By: Ronald Kresten | 28/12/2009A popular choice for weddings is to hold the reception in a marquee if couples have access to space. Wedding marquee hire is simple and easy with professional teams setting up and advising you on the various choices to be made – having the experts to hand is reassuring during this stressful time leading up to what should be the most enjoyable day of your life.
Planning your wedding marquee hire
By: Arthor Greenwald | 28/12/2009As soon as the engagement has been declared most couples will start the exciting business of planning their wedding straight away. For most families the two sides have often had little contact before the announcement of the wedding day so it can be a daunting process.
Advice on Becoming a PMO / Project Management Assistant
By: contractpm | 24/12/2009A lot of people want to become a PMO / PMSO (Project Management Support Officer) but it seems like these people are the forgotten voice – to my knowledge there is not much written about becoming a PMO, as a result I decided to write this article. I believe there are a number of levels of PMO; I will attempt to share what I know about how to get a role at each level, in terms of recruitment, training, benchmark of similar roles/typical CV and anything else I can share.
Is it worth Joining Professional Bodies?
By: contractpm | 24/12/2009In this economic climate it is worth doing anything possible to improve how the CV looks and to differentiate yourself to look more professional than the next contractor to get a contract… Many of my colleagues have been out of contract for some time and getting an APM or PMP member status is a quick and cheap way of improving the CV, that doesn’t require the time and cash and study that a new qualification would require.
PM Booklist
By: contractpm | 24/12/2009I decided to compile a list of books that have been useful to me, as a Project Manager. Some of these books are designed to be a reference to help you in your job, some of them to help with specific PM qualifications and some just to read and retain. I have placed the books in order of importance and influence to my knowledge as a Project Manager:
Would You Consider Contracting?
By: contractpm | 24/12/2009In these times of crisis, we are reminded how unsecure our jobs can be. In such a market would you consider contracting? If the answer is yes, then you probably believe that you will not be able to get a role as a contractor, so let me dispel a few of the common myths surrounding this:
5 Keys to Deciding on a Certification
By: Virtual Assistant for J.P. Reiling | 11/01/2008 | Project ManagementSome say that the requirements for many certifications have been 'dumbed down'? However, if you look into it, it looks like quite a bit of effort (not to mention money) goes into earning many of the more valuable IT certifications, not to mention the PMP. There is clearly value and knowledge gained, and the key to success is choosing the right one – one that you can apply as soon as possible and will take you toward your goals.
Online Project Management Solutions Gains Momentum
By: Virtual Assistant for J.P. Reiling | 10/01/2008 | Project ManagementSeavus Group of London has announced on PMFORUM a brand new online project management and collaboration - ProjectOffice.net - as announced on PMFORUM. Online project management solutions are growing with leaps and bounds.