Improving Processes Across Industries with Lean Six Sigma

Lean Six Sigma is a process improvement methodology that can help organizations across a wide range of industries strive towards operational excellence. It combines the Lean principle of reducing waste in all forms and the Six Sigma principle of reducing defects, errors, and variations in operations to streamline processes. RIT Certified offers Yellow Belt, Green Belt, and Black Belt courses taught by instructors with ample experience utilizing Lean Six Sigma in real world applications. We spoke with Master Black Belts Eileen Askey and Pat Campbell to learn more about their history with Lean Six Sigma and what they bring to the courses as instructors.

How did you become an expert in Lean Six Sigma and what made you decide to become an instructor?

Pat: When I was working at Xerox, they did quality Lean Six Sigma training, and I got involved. Our organization’s VP “voluntold” me to take Black Belt training and then get my master’s degree in statistics. I fell into being an instructor because teaching is a requirement for the Master Black Belt, and I liked it.

Eileen Askey

Eileen: When Xerox launched the Lean Six Sigma program for employees, we were all required to do Yellow Belt. Our director wanted to have a project done, and asked if I wanted to take it — I did. Later, he asked me if I wanted to do Black Belt, and I did, so I continued on. I always wanted to be a teacher, and the Master Black Belt program gave me that opportunity.

What do you think makes Lean Six Sigma a valuable methodology in multiple industries?

Lean Six Sigma is a process improvement methodology, and it’s not restricted to one industry. Anyone that has a process can use it. It’s a standard and known way of thinking in the scientific community, and it can be adapted to any type of process and sized accordingly.

What makes RIT Certified’s Lean Six Sigma courses unique?

Our program has an adaptable and flexible way of teaching and instructing that meets student needs first. We weave together different techniques such as agile project management and coaching on demand, and we understand that projects brought to Lean Six Sigma courses can change with changing business requirements. Plus, the Lean Six Sigma courses we offer take place at night and they’re fully online, so workers with day jobs can attend more easily.

What do you think is the main benefit students get from learning the Lean Six Sigma methodology?

The main benefit students get from this methodology is the ability to efficiently solve problems and improve processes. Even after completing the lowest level course, Yellow Belt, a student can make an impact on their organization.

What is the most important skill or piece of knowledge that students gain from each Lean Six Sigma course?

The most important thing students learn is how to articulate the DMAIC framework and use critical thinking. It’s not about just gaining specific tools, but also understanding when something is the right tool for the problem and when it’s not.

What are some of the biggest challenges in Lean Six Sigma?

The biggest challenges all come from the actual implementation of Lean Six Sigma methodology in an organization. For example, if people don’t understand or know about the process, they can be resistant to change. If someone is the only Lean Six Sigma practitioner in their organization, it can be hard to get support for the process changes. In addition, outside factors such as changing business requirements, scope changes, leadership changes, and sponsors with personal agendas that don’t align with following the process. It can also be challenging if someone tries to start with a pre-determined solution or if they get stuck on using certain tools that might not be best for the problem that leads to analysis paralysis.

In Conclusion

Lean Six Sigma methodology can be useful across industries, but only if you properly equip yourself with the knowledge and tools you need. RIT Certified’s courses are designed for the working professional looking to upgrade their skills and become an asset for their organization for years to come. You can learn more about our offerings here.