Although Six Sigma is based on statistical methods, implementing Six Sigma in any organization is much more than relatively simple statistics. It is more like changing the company's philosophy, and employing a new method of thinking about quality. Understanding of Six Sigma is based on extensive Six Sigma training. Who should be trained and why? Well, it is not an easy question to answer – almost any employee may be trained in Six Sigma, but proper implementation demands something more than that.

What really is Six Sigma?

Basically, Six Sigma can be defined as a methodology of managing process' variations that cause defects, defined as unacceptable deviations from the mean or target. To achieve Six Sigma levels, a process cannot produce more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities.

Levels of Six Sigma training

Successful implementation of Six Sigma can benefit in many ways, but it demands properly trained people. Six Sigma training should be started at the top management level – because these people are responsible for setting up a vision for the whole process. Although it is not necessary to introduce them to all the details of the methodology, it is important to remember that knowing more is not a bad idea – so if time allows, top management can be thoroughly trained in the process. They are called Executive Leadership, and have a key role in introducing the whole idea to the organization.

More detailed Six Sigma training is necessary for so-called Champions. They are responsible for Six Sigma's implementation across their organization. They also act as mentors to lower level team members. Champions are the keys to successful implementation, however detailed knowledge about statistical apparatus is not necessary for them. Their role is to motivate, not to calculate.

The next level of Six Sigma training are Master Black Belts. They assist Champions, guide and act as expert coaches in the organization. Their role is to ensure integrated deployment of Six Sigma across various departments of the organization and to supervise and fine-tune the work of the lower-levels. Unlike Executive Leadership and Champions, Master Black Belts need very detailed knowledge about statistical tools and the methodologies of Six Sigma.

Black Belts needs the most detailed Six Sigma training, because they apply methodologies to specific projects. Based on DMAIC (Design, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) or DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify) concepts they are responsible for designing new processes, or analyzing and fine-tuning old ones. For this they demand the most detailed training of statistical tools and specific functions. Black Belts are the most important factor to successful Six Sigma implementation in the organization.

Green Belts also need detailed training, but they can rely on guidance an assist of Black Belts. Understanding of complex statistical apparatus is still necessary, but in case of any doubts they are supposed to consult Black Belts. Unlike Master Black Belts and Black Belts, Green Belts are not solely responsible for implementation of Six Sigma. They are employees with normal responsibilities, but with additional training to serve as support to higher level experts in achieving the overall result.