Building Six Sigma internal structure – a trend of growing businesses

Six Sigma is a method of quality management by measuring the effectiveness of activities and increasing efficiency using statistical tools.

Data on the development and internal structure of Six Sigma in companies in Europe directly indicates that more enterprises are choosing to implement the concepts of Six Sigma, Lean Management or their combination – Lean Six Sigma. These concepts allow organizations to continuously improve themselves. They are also a very important element in a company’s management strategy. Organizational improvement process using Six Sigma strategy is implemented not only in manufacturing companies. An increasing number of service sector companies are also choosing to build an internal Six Sigma structure and want to develop their processes using measurement and statistical tools.

Where to start building a Six Sigma internal structure?

The most important element in the initial implementation of Six Sigma concepts in an organization is the staff preparation process. This process should begin with training the staff in Six Sigma methodology, basic statistics, and problem solving tools. Employees should also be familiar with principles and best practices for conducting optimization projects (for example, based on the DMAIC model). Training is provided at different levels that correspond to the different lanes within Six Sigma. It is important for the organization to plan its staff improvement strategy in such a way that its members can improve processes and optimize costs in different areas of the business. The Six Sigma team should be interdisciplinary – it should include representatives from different departments.

Six Sigma structure – the roles and responsibilities of team members

White Belt – is a level for beginners, covering the basic issues of process optimization. Training at this level is an introduction to management concepts. Six Sigma White Belt team members are typically employees who have specialized knowledge of the specific process being analyzed and optimized as part of the project. White Belt knowledge is often based on experience.

Yellow Belt – this level includes not only training in key issues of Six Sigma and Lean Management methodologies. The Yellow Belt level is characterized by the ability to use specialized Six Sigma language. Yellow Belt also knows and understands key processes in the organization.

Green Belt – people at this level have knowledge of Six Sigma and Lean Management. They also know methods and tools to identify process losses and effectively solve problems. Green Belts are able to lead their own projects in accordance with Six Sigma methodology. He/she also has the qualities of a group leader and knows how to manage a small team. Green Belt is also a member of teams that work on improvements in larger projects that are led by Black Belt.

Black Belt – This level focuses on process improvement leadership development and is recommended for those who already have experience leading smaller projects. At this level, Six Sigma Black Belt trainees master the principles and philosophy of Six Sigma and prepare to effectively lead large project teams. Black Belt’s knowledge and analytical skills are at a high level. The Black Belt often supervises and mentors the Green Belt.

Why is it worth investing in employee training?

Organizations that choose to train employees most often choose Six Sigma training at the Yellow Belt or Green Belt level. In training at these levels, participants learn the basics of process improvement using statistical tools.

Knowledge of appropriate methodology and basic tools for monitoring and improving processes make the solutions developed by the team in organizations effective and sustainable.

Creating the right Six Sigma structure within an organization is very important for business growth. With the acquired knowledge, Six Sigma team members can support the organization in achieving both operational and strategic goals. The activities of Six Sigma teams affect the quality, performance, and financial results of the enterprise.

Additionally, the Six Sigma team plays another important role in the organization – it inspires other employees. The development of Lean Management and Six Sigma concepts positively influences the organizational culture.

Building competitive advantage through Black Belt competencies

Training employees at the Yellow Belt and Green Belt level has an impact on business operations. However, these competencies may not be sufficient for disruptive company transformations. An organization becomes more competitive when it has a Black Belt on its team. It should be emphasized that training a person at the Black Belt level is a time-consuming process. Such person should go through the preceding levels, thus gaining valuable experience.

The existence of employees with different levels in the Six Sigma structure is very important. When the entire Six Sigma internal team works together, the company gains the most benefit. Teamwork is a key component of the Six Sigma structure.