8 Things a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Should Know

We’re sometimes asked – what’s the difference between a Green Belt and a Black Belt? What sort of things should a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt know that a Green Belt does not – these are great questions, because there is A LOT of variation in the training available out there.

Not all Lean Six Sigma Black Belt courses are the same! and for this reason, it becomes almost impossible to determine what the difference should or should not be as it becomes a matter of opinion. There are however some key elements where we generally see a difference and let’s not forget, we are thinking about the skills required to deliver successful, sustainable change within service organizations first and foremost.

So, with this in mind let’s take a look at what we see as the things a Lean Six Sigma Black belt should know above and beyond that of a Green belt – here they are in no particular order of importance:

Our training uses active learning simulations (with Lego for extra awesomeness!) as well as group and individual exercises to embed the learning of all the above. This allows us to demonstrate 2 types of problems, one relating to Flow and one relating more to variation. Both simulations allow us to practice tools and techniques in a safe environment whilst relating back to the real world. This ensures our Black belts are well prepared when undertaking their real-world project.

So, what do you think of our list? Is there anything missing that you feel should stipulate a difference between a Green Belt and a Black Belt? Let’s not forgot we are focused on service and in-service many the manufacturing methods are just not required and so we don’t teach them (or only reference them)