Six Sigma Black Belts: What Do They Need to Know? And Subsequent Discussions and Response
- Publication:
- Journal of Quality Technology
- Date:
- October 2001
- Issue:
- Volume 33 Issue 4
- Pages:
- pp. 391-435
- Author(s):
- Hoerl, Roger W., Montgomery, Douglas C., Lawson, Cathy, Molnau, Wade E., Elias, Russ, Abraham, Bovas, MacKay, Jock, Snee, Ronald D., Pyzdek, Thomas, Hill, William J., Breyfogle, Forrest W. III, Enck, David, Meadows, Becki, Bailey, Steven P.
- Organization(s):
- GE Corporate R & D, Arizona State Univ., Motorola Communications Systems Div., ON Semiconductor, Univ. of Waterloo, Sigma Breakthrough Technologies, Inc., Pyzdek Consulting, Honeywell International, Smarter Solutions, Inc., DuPont Global Services,
Abstract
[This abstract is based on the author's abstract.] In published discussions of Six Sigma improvement methodology, the terms "Black Belt," "Master Black Belt," and "Green Belt" are often used indiscriminately without clear definition. This makes it unclear to both readers and those hiring Black Belts just what training and skills these people possess. In order to reach a general consensus, a context and forum for discussion of the technical skills required by Six Sigma Black Belts is provided. Black Belts are the focus of the discussion, since they are the backbone of Six Sigma initiatives. Examples of published curricula are discussed, as are recent trends in applied statistics. A Black Belt curriculum is recommended and compared to the Certified Quality Engineer criteria.