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Lois A. Jordan
and
David Cook, PhD
This course is designed for professionals interested in learning the principles of Lean Sigma, the DMAIC process and DFSS. This course is number 3 of 8 in this specialization dealing with topics in the Define Phase of Six Sigma
Professionals with some completed coursework in statistics and a desire to drive continuous improvement within their organizations would find this course and the others in this specialization appealing.
Method of assessment consists of several formative and summative quizzes and a multi-part peer reviewed project completion regiment.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Voice of the Customer
Business Case and Project Charter
Project Management Tools
Read more
Syllabus
Voice of the Customer
Business Case and Project Charter
Project Management Tools
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Concepts are applicable to a variety of industries
Begins by establishing a foundation for Six Sigma methods
Taught by individuals with a solid background in Six Sigma
Instructors recognized as leaders in the field of Six Sigma
Uses latest version of popular industry software tools
Taught by David Cook, PhD, a respected expert in Lean Sigma
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Reviews summary
Six sigma define phase for professionals
According to students, this course is a highly practical and essential component for professionals pursuing their Six Sigma Black Belt certification. Learners frequently highlight the instructor's clear explanations and the course's strong emphasis on developing a robust business case and project charter. While the peer-reviewed project is seen as challenging yet valuable for real-world application, some note that a strong statistical background is beneficial given the course's pace and assumed prior knowledge. Overall, it provides a solid foundation in the Define Phase, directly applicable to continuous improvement initiatives.
Critical, foundational part of Black Belt specialization.
"This course is a critical component of the Lean Sigma Black Belt specialization."
"The course effectively covers the Define phase. It complements the specialization well."
"This course is essential for anyone progressing through the Six Sigma Black Belt curriculum."
Challenging peer-reviewed project enhances learning.
"The peer-reviewed project was challenging but incredibly valuable for applying what I learned."
"The project charter development was a highlight... The peer review process was good for getting feedback..."
"The final project required significant self-direction, but I found it useful for applying concepts."
Instructor provides clear, digestible explanations.
"The instructor's explanations were very clear, and the real-world examples helped solidify complex concepts."
"The instructor does a great job explaining complex topics in a digestible manner."
"I found the instructor to be knowledgeable and engaging throughout the lectures."
Directly applicable tools for professional improvement.
"Excellent course, truly defines the Define Phase in a practical way. ... helpful for applying what I learned."
"This course is a critical component... It lays a very strong foundation for understanding how to properly scope and define a Six Sigma project."
"The content is directly applicable to my work. The most impactful part was learning how to effectively define a business case and project charter."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
Some parts are fast-paced, requiring re-engagement.
"My only minor gripe is that sometimes the pace was a little quick, but rewatching lectures helped."
"I felt some parts were a bit dry. ... I had to consult external resources for some of the project management tools."
"I found some of the analytical tools briefly covered, requiring me to pause and review."
Benefits greatly from a strong statistics background.
"Some of the statistical tools were briefly covered, assuming prior knowledge, which is fair given it's a Black Belt course."
"I found the course difficult to follow without a very strong background in advanced statistics..."
"It's okay if you already have a strong stats background, otherwise, be prepared for extra work."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt with these
activities:
Review Statistics Concepts
Show steps
Brush up on statistics concepts to enhance your understanding of Lean Sigma methodologies.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
-
Review probability distributions.
-
Recap hypothesis testing.
Explore Online Lean Sigma Resources
Show steps
Enhance your knowledge by exploring reputable online sources on Lean Sigma best practices and methodologies.
Show steps
-
Search for reputable Lean Sigma organizations.
-
Review articles.
-
Watch industry webinars.
Read "The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook"
Show steps
Expand your knowledge by reviewing a comprehensive resource on Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.
View
Lean Six Sigma - An Introduction and Toolkit...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the introduction.
-
Review relevant sections.
-
Apply the tools and techniques in your projects.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Kickstart Lean Sigma Project
Show steps
Start a Lean Sigma project to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice and gain hands-on experience in the DMAIC Process.
Show steps
-
Define the problem statement.
-
Establish a team.
-
Create a project charter.
-
Develop a DMAIC plan.
Define and Use Project Charter
Show steps
Apply a standard format and structure to project charters.
Browse courses on
Project Charter
Show steps
-
Develop a project charter template.
-
Create a project charter for a sample project.
-
Review and analyze example project charters.
Conduct Process Mapping Exercise
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of process mapping techniques through practical exercises.
Browse courses on
Process Mapping
Show steps
-
Identify a process to map.
-
Use appropriate mapping tools.
-
Analyze the process for improvement opportunities.
Project Scope and Goals Presentation
Show steps
Develop clear and concise communication skills for project scope and goals.
Browse courses on
Project Scope
Show steps
-
Gather information on project scope and goals.
-
Create a presentation outline.
-
Develop supporting visuals and materials.
-
Practice and refine presentation skills.
Develop a Lean Sigma Glossary
Show steps
Create a comprehensive glossary to solidify your understanding of Lean Sigma principles and terminology.
Browse courses on
Lean Sigma
Show steps
-
Identify key concepts.
-
Define each concept clearly.
-
Organize the glossary alphabetically.
Volunteer at a Lean Sigma Implementation
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to real-world Lean Sigma initiatives by volunteering your time.
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities.
-
Reach out to organizations.
-
Participate in projects.
Review Statistics Concepts
Show steps
Brush up on statistics concepts to enhance your understanding of Lean Sigma methodologies.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review probability distributions.
- Recap hypothesis testing.
Explore Online Lean Sigma Resources
Show steps
Enhance your knowledge by exploring reputable online sources on Lean Sigma best practices and methodologies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable Lean Sigma organizations.
- Review articles.
- Watch industry webinars.
Read "The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook"
Show steps
Expand your knowledge by reviewing a comprehensive resource on Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.
View
Lean Six Sigma - An Introduction and Toolkit...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the introduction.
- Review relevant sections.
- Apply the tools and techniques in your projects.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Kickstart Lean Sigma Project
Show steps
Start a Lean Sigma project to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice and gain hands-on experience in the DMAIC Process.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the problem statement.
- Establish a team.
- Create a project charter.
- Develop a DMAIC plan.
Define and Use Project Charter
Show steps
Apply a standard format and structure to project charters.
Browse courses on
Project Charter
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Develop a project charter template.
- Create a project charter for a sample project.
- Review and analyze example project charters.
Conduct Process Mapping Exercise
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of process mapping techniques through practical exercises.
Browse courses on
Process Mapping
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a process to map.
- Use appropriate mapping tools.
- Analyze the process for improvement opportunities.
Project Scope and Goals Presentation
Show steps
Develop clear and concise communication skills for project scope and goals.
Browse courses on
Project Scope
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information on project scope and goals.
- Create a presentation outline.
- Develop supporting visuals and materials.
- Practice and refine presentation skills.
Develop a Lean Sigma Glossary
Show steps
Create a comprehensive glossary to solidify your understanding of Lean Sigma principles and terminology.
Browse courses on
Lean Sigma
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key concepts.
- Define each concept clearly.
- Organize the glossary alphabetically.
Volunteer at a Lean Sigma Implementation
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to real-world Lean Sigma initiatives by volunteering your time.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities.
- Reach out to organizations.
- Participate in projects.
Career center
Learners who complete The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is a highly skilled professional who uses Six Sigma principles and tools to improve organizational performance. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course is a foundational course for those who want to become Lean Six Sigma Black Belts.
Master Black Belt
Master Black Belt
A Master Black Belt is a highly experienced Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who is responsible for leading and mentoring other Black Belts. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course is a foundational course for those who want to become Master Black Belts.
Continuous Improvement Manager
Continuous Improvement Manager
A Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for developing and implementing continuous improvement programs to improve organizational performance. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of Six Sigma principles and tools, which can be used to identify and eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
Six Sigma Champion
Six Sigma Champion
A Six Sigma Champion is a senior leader who is responsible for supporting and promoting Six Sigma initiatives within their organization. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of Six Sigma principles and tools, which can be used to make informed decisions about Six Sigma projects.
Process Engineer
Process Engineer
A Process Engineer designs and improves manufacturing processes to ensure that they are efficient and effective. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of process improvement methodologies, such as DMAIC and DFSS.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Manager
A Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance programs to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of quality management principles and tools, which can be used to improve quality and reduce defects.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager develops and executes marketing campaigns to promote products and services. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of customer segmentation and targeting, which can be used to develop effective marketing campaigns.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
A Sales Manager is responsible for leading and motivating a sales team to achieve sales targets. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of customer relationship management, which can be used to build and maintain strong customer relationships.
Product Manager
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for developing and managing products from concept to launch. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of customer needs and requirements, which can be used to develop products that meet market demand.
Quality Manager
Quality Manager
A Quality Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality control systems to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of Six Sigma principles and tools, which can be used to improve quality and reduce defects.
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, executes, and closes projects to achieve specific goals. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of project management tools and techniques, which can be used to manage projects effectively.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to identify trends and patterns. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of statistical tools and techniques, which can be used to analyze data and make informed decisions.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst identifies and analyzes business needs and develops solutions to improve organizational performance. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of business process improvement methodologies, such as DMAIC and DFSS.
Consultant
Consultant
A Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics, including process improvement, quality management, and project management. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of Six Sigma principles and tools, which can be used to help clients improve their operations.
Operations Manager
Operations Manager
An Operations Manager oversees daily operations for their organization, ensuring that processes are effective and efficient. The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt course may be useful in this role by providing an understanding of the DMAIC process, which can be used to improve operational efficiency. The course also covers project management tools and analytical tools, which are essential for managing projects and making data-driven decisions.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/g3isqf/the
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt.
This handy reference book provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques. It valuable resource for anyone involved in process improvement and would be a useful supplement to this course.
This comprehensive handbook provides a detailed overview of the Six Sigma process, from project definition to implementation. It valuable resource for professionals who want to learn more about the Six Sigma methodology.
This comprehensive handbook provides a thorough overview of Six Sigma principles and methodologies. It valuable resource for anyone involved in quality improvement and would provide additional depth to this course.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to Six Sigma for beginners. It covers the basics of the Six Sigma process, as well as how to apply it to improve quality and productivity.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of statistical methods for quality improvement. It valuable resource for anyone involved in Six Sigma data analysis and would provide an excellent foundation for this course.
Provides a clear and concise overview of Six Sigma principles and methodologies. It valuable resource for anyone new to Six Sigma and would be a useful supplement to this course.
Provides a historical account of the Six Sigma movement at General Electric. It valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Six Sigma and would provide background knowledge for this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Voice of the Customer (VOC) process. It covers how to collect, analyze, and use customer feedback to improve products and services.
Provides a clear and concise overview of the business case for Six Sigma. It shows how Six Sigma can be used to improve quality, productivity, and profitability.
Provides a case study of how Six Sigma has been used to improve performance at GE, Motorola, and other top companies. It shows how Six Sigma can be used to improve quality, productivity, and profitability.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/g3isqf/the
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Rating
4.4
Effort
12 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
University System of Georgia
Instructors
Lois A. Jordan
David Cook, PhD
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Six Sigma Black Belt. It's comprised of eight courses:
- The Define Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt (viewing)
- DFSS for the 6 σ Black Belt
- The Measure Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt
- Organization Planning and Development for the 6 σ Black Belt
- The Improve Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt
- The Analyze Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt
- The Control Phase for the 6 σ Black Belt
- Team Management for the 6 σ Black Belt
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