Standards for Lean Six Sigma certification

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of current Lean Six Sigma certification practices among different industries and organisations and puts forward a public standard.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey results, unstructured interviews and secondary information are used to illustrate the existing variation in certification standards across industries and organisations.

Findings

The high variation in Lean Six Sigma certification standards makes it very difficult to judge the actual competence of a certified Belt and to evaluate a Lean Six Sigma program in organisations. As such, the need for a globally accepted certification standard is identified, similar to what is already in place for other professions.

Originality/value

This paper has a highly practical content for industry practitioners, with the intent of suggesting Lean Six Sigma certification standards be used in organisations, drawing on the best practices from major companies.

Citation

Laureani, A. and Antony, J. (2012), "Standards for Lean Six Sigma certification", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 61 No. 1, pp. 110-120. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401211188560