Certified Lean Six Sigma® Yellow Belt

Module 1: introduction to continuous improvement

• What is continuous improvement? Definition, challenges and benefits.
• Problem solving: general methodology and the 5 Whys method.
• Challenges of continuous improvement: competitiveness, sustainability and resistance to change.
• Choosing an improvement strategy: criteria and examples.
• Main continuous improvement methodologies: comparison and complementarity (Lean, Six Sigma, TQM, etc.).

Module 2: introduction to Lean Management

• The origins of Lean: the Toyota production system.
• Real case studies: successes and failures in Lean implementation.
• The organisational and cultural dimensions of Lean:
  • Identify critical customer needs.
  • Define a process.
  • Manage performance and define objectives.
  • Organise the company structure.
  • Adopt a Lean team approach.
• The main Lean principles: value, waste, continuous flow and perfection.
• The 8 sources of waste (MUDA): exercises identifying waste in a process.
• Kaizen events: principles, process and benefits.

Module 3: introduction to the Six Sigma method

• What is the Six Sigma method?
• The normal distribution.
• The relationship between Six Sigma and DPMO (Defects per Million Opportunities).
• The difference between 3.8 Sigma and 6 Sigma.
• Sigma levels and the cost of poor quality.

Module 4: combining Lean and Six Sigma methods

• The DMAIC methodology:
  • define;
  • measure;
  • analyse;
  • improve;
  • control.
• Success criteria for a Lean Six Sigma project.
• DMAIC teams (roles and responsibilities).
• The 3 main DMAIC deliverables.
• The phase review (Tollgate).

Module 5: deploying Lean Six Sigma

• The 6 key elements of Lean Six Sigma implementation.
• Preparing deployment.
• The composition of a Lean Six Sigma team (roles and responsibilities).
• Establishing a governance structure.
• Integrating Lean Six Sigma into company strategy.
• Planning and choosing a Lean Six Sigma project.
• Introduction to the Hoshin Kanri X matrix.
• Developing skills.
• Lean Six Sigma success factors.

Module 6: preparing for the Six Sigma Yellow Belt exam

• Introduction to the different Lean Six Sigma certifications and criteria.
• Reviewing key points covered throughout the course.
• Detailed introduction to the exam (structure, format and topics covered).
• Tips and advice for passing the exam (methodology, time management, etc.).