These two levels are made up of leaders with great authority and the responsibility of overseeing the implementation of Six Sigma Certification in an all encompassing and smooth transition.

The main role of the champion within the implementation is that of the block remover. Black belts alone cannot handle the blockages which may occur when Six Sigma certification is implemented within a company; Champions must deal with issues that come up between Black Belts in different divisions.

While Black Belts can focus on the problems at hand, champions must resolve issues through mediation and pacification.

There are four points which demonstrate the role of the champion in a Six Sigma organization:

Champions must be familiar with business and operational areas. On the other hand, they must not interfere with the day to day operations of the black belts. This way, the focus lies on potential improvements.

Part of the critical processes of implementation is the selection of projects. The role of the champion is to fill this role after consulting over possible fears with Six Sigma providers or consultants.

Projects will often come under close scrutiny after reports to top management, so a champion needs to have good communication skills and explain the process beforehand.

Sometimes the results of implementation can start to come under criticism before it runs its proper course. Most often, the deployment of the Six Sigma program involves some important financial decisions and the Six Sigma provider is key in improving financials as well as implementation.

The fact that Champions find themselves in a tough place is illustrated by the fact that they are often blamed for failures. In fact, it has been said that there are no unsuccessful black belts, only unsuccessful champions.

Master Black Belts

While there are no universal standards which set master black belts apart from black belts, he major differentiating factor will be the higher degree of problem solving which Master Black Belts tend to demonstrate.

Master Black Belts are always self motivators and starters as well as self reliant. With the right Six Sigma training they may also be ready to take on roles with increased challenges and loftier goals.

Because of the importance of problem solving ability, Six Sigma certification requires a Six Sigma Black Belt to demonstrate incredible aptitude in the area before they are passed.

The successful implementation of the Six Sigma methodology depends on more than skill and knowledge of the tools involved. It must also include the zeal and enthusiasm in addition to the drive for quality in a company`s products.