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What is the Difference Between Six Sigma Black and Green Belt Training?

Six Sigma is a methodology that focuses on attaining near perfect quality thorough minimizing wastages. Trained professionals hold different levels of certification. Two common classifications include a green and black belt.

In this post, you will learn about the difference between the black and green belt certification. The information will help in selecting the right Six Sigma training course.

1. Responsibilities

Individuals who have green belt certification are generally lower level project managers. According to the American Society for Quality, green belt certified professionals assist the black belt certificated project manager in data collection and analysis.  The certification provides information that is required to analyze and address quality issues. Individuals who get green belt certification work under the project manager who holds black belt certification.

On the other hand, black belt certified individuals are qualified to work in a leadership position. They are well-versed with the methodologies. Individuals holding a black belt certification know about team dynamics and they can direct and supervise activities of green belt holders. They use tools such as online project management software to schedule tasks based on Six Sigma methodology.

2. Certification Requirements

The exact requirements for Six Sigma certifications vary. The American Society for Quality requires that green belt candidates must have at least three years of experience in applying at least one of the core knowledge area of the certification. Also, they are required to pass an exam containing 100 questions in under four hours.

The requirements for black belt certification are three years’ experience in the application of at least one core black belt certification knowledge area. In addition, individuals need to pass an exam containing 150 questions in under four hours. The exact requirements for the certification differ depending on the certification authority such as Millennium Global Business Solution and Lean Training and Consulting.

3. Complexity of Course

The green belt certification is less challenging as compared to black belt certification. It’s a middle-level course that normally lasts 40 hours. The training course is appropriate for individuals who want to know basic requirements to conform to Six Sigma requirements.

On the other hand, the black belt certification is a more advanced level course. The certification entails detailed principles and complex content such as Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) or Design of Experiments (DOE). The certification course duration is generally 80 hours. The certification course is perfect for project managers who are responsible for managing a complex project.

Which is the Right Training Option for You?

If you are working as a project facilitator and assist the project manager in ensuring compliance with Six Sigma, you should go for green belt certification. However, if you are a project manager responsible for carrying out work in accordance with Six Sigma methodology, you should go for black belt certification.