Introduction to Lean Six Sigma for Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains from edX

Lean Six Sigma Training can minimize the risks of failure in organizations' Six Sigma initiatives, lean practices, and operational performance. Lean Six Sigma training benefits individuals who may be working with current or future organizations implementing Six Sigma. Employers look to Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belts to participate as core members of Six Sigma projects within the company and require that Yellow Belts are well versed in Lean Six Sigma Supply Chain Techniques, Six Sigma Tools and Methodologies, How to Analyze/Control/Define, Relevant Knowledge Management, Quality Standards, Cost of Poor Quality, Sustainable Supply Chain Processes, and Process Improvement Projects that build Supply Chain resilience.

This course is part of the edX Professional Certificate program Lean Six Sigma for Sustainable Supply Chain (CLSSYB), offered by ISCEA. Lean Six Sigma decision-making within the supply chain process impacts areas of operation management, logistics management, lean management, production management, and risk management in business models.

CLSSYB-certified professionals are more likely to lead successful lean thinking, generate competitive advantage and profitability, minimize the risk of failure in corporate initiatives, and drive continuous improvement toward sustainability in supply chain management and supply chain operations.

Upon completion of the course, you will have advanced closer to becoming an ISCEA Certified Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CLSSYB). To finalize the process, you must complete both preparatory courses, (CLSSYB01 and CLSSYB02) and successfully pass the CLSSYB Exam.

Stand out from the crowd and accelerate your career growth and Supply Chain management practices by obtaining an internationally recognized Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Designation to better supply chain performance.

What you'll learn

How Six Sigma began and its relevance to business processes, quality management, and optimization
How to utilize Six Sigma Methodology and differentiate MAIC to DMAIC Methodology
How to identify which Gurus supported Six Sigma principles such as Financials, Management Accountability, and 4 Absolutes of Quality
Apply Quality Standards that include Six Sigma
Utilize Six Sigma to seek macro-level or micro-level specific improvement
How to Apply the Lean to Six Sigma and understand what is included in “Lean” to earn a Lean Six Sigma Certificate
To define the Six Sigma Main Steps and Phases
To Identify examples/case studies of the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) and which statistics do not measure specific measurement

What's inside

Learning objectives

How six sigma began and its relevance to business processes, quality management, and optimization
How to utilize six sigma methodology and differentiate maic to dmaic methodology
How to identify which gurus supported six sigma principles such as financials, management accountability, and 4 absolutes of quality
Apply quality standards that include six sigma

Utilize six sigma to seek macro-level or micro-level specific improvement
How to apply the lean to six sigma and understand what is included in “lean” to earn a lean six sigma certificate
To define the six sigma main steps and phases
To identify examples/case studies of the cost of poor quality (copq) and which statistics do not measure specific measurement

How six sigma began and its relevance to business processes, quality management, and optimization
How to utilize six sigma methodology and differentiate maic to dmaic methodology
How to identify which gurus supported six sigma principles such as financials, management accountability, and 4 absolutes of quality
Apply quality standards that include six sigma
Utilize six sigma to seek macro-level or micro-level specific improvement
How to apply the lean to six sigma and understand what is included in “lean” to earn a lean six sigma certificate
To define the six sigma main steps and phases
To identify examples/case studies of the cost of poor quality (copq) and which statistics do not measure specific measurement

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Examines Lean Six Sigma and its relevance to operations management, logistics management, lean management, production management, and risk management in business models

Develops an understanding of Six Sigma Methodology and the differentiation of MAIC to DMAIC Methodology

Explores the support of Six Sigma principles by Gurus such as Financials, Management Accountability, and 4 Absolutes of Quality

Applies Quality Standards that include Six Sigma

Utilizes Six Sigma to seek macro-level or micro-level specific improvement

Applies Lean to Six Sigma, focusing on the aspects of 'Lean' in earning a Lean Six Sigma Certificate

Defines the Six Sigma Main Steps and Phases

Investigates examples/case studies of the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) and identifies statistics that do not measure specific measurement

Reviews summary

Lean six sigma for supply chain professionals

According to learners, this course offers a clear and well-structured introduction to Lean Six Sigma, particularly for those in supply chain management. Many found the content easy to follow and appreciated its direct relevance to their professional roles, helping to demystify complex concepts. Students highlight its strength in providing a solid foundation for understanding how these methodologies apply to sustainable and resilient supply chains. While widely praised for its preparation for the Yellow Belt certification exam, some learners suggest it could benefit from more hands-on exercises or deeper dives into practical application, as it leans more towards a theoretical overview. Overall, it is highly recommended for professionals seeking to enhance their supply chain skills and pursue certification.

Helps prepare students for the ISCEA Yellow Belt exam.

"I feel much more confident approaching the CLSSYB exam now. The instructor explained complex concepts very well."

"The course is well-paced and the objectives align perfectly with the ISCEA Yellow Belt requirements. Highly recommend for career advancement."

"I think the course prepared me well for the Yellow Belt exam... Good for getting certified."

Demystifies Lean Six Sigma, providing a solid introduction.

"Excellent foundational course! It demystified Lean Six Sigma for me and showed how it applies directly to improving supply chain processes."

"Exactly what I needed to get started with Lean Six Sigma. The course made the connection to supply chain very clear."

"It serves its purpose as an 'introduction' and lays a solid groundwork."

Explanations are concise, easy to follow, and well-organized.

"This course provided an excellent foundation for understanding Lean Six Sigma... The content was well-structured, clear, and easy to follow..."

"The concepts were explained concisely, and the focus on supply chain was helpful."

"I found the explanations of Six Sigma methodologies very clear. It definitely helps in preparing for the Yellow Belt certification."

Directly applicable to supply chain operations and career growth.

"As a supply chain professional, I found the practical application of Lean Six Sigma principles to sustainability and resilience invaluable."

"Very informative and relevant for anyone in supply chain operations. The emphasis on quality standards and cost of poor quality was particularly useful."

"The course made the connection to supply chain very clear. Highly practical for professionals."

Some learners desired more practical exercises and deeper dives.

"While strong on theory, I felt it could benefit from more hands-on exercises or case studies that go deeper than just examples, perhaps an interactive simulation."

"The course content is alright, but at times it felt a bit too theoretical for my taste. I was looking for more actionable strategies."

"Some parts felt like a high-level overview, but given it's an introduction, that's understandable. I felt some sections were a bit rushed..."

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 Introduction to Lean Six Sigma for Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains with these activities:

Read The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook

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This book provides a concise overview of the most important Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.

View Lean Six Sigma - An Introduction and Toolkit... on Amazon

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Read the introduction and first three chapters.
Take notes on the key tools and techniques.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.

Find a Lean Six Sigma mentor

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Finding a mentor will help you to learn from someone who has experience with Lean Six Sigma.

Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma

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Identify the skills and knowledge you want to learn.
Search for potential mentors online or through your network.
Contact potential mentors and ask for their guidance.

Read Six Sigma for Dummies

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma and will help you to understand the core concepts and methodologies.

View Six Sigma For Dummies on Amazon

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Read the introduction and first three chapters.
Take notes on the key concepts and methodologies.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.

Five other activities

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Follow a Six Sigma online course

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Following an online course will help you to learn the core concepts and methodologies of Six Sigma.

Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma

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Find a reputable online course provider.
Enroll in a course that meets your needs.
Complete the course modules and assignments.

Solve Six Sigma practice problems

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Solving practice problems will help you to develop your problem-solving skills and apply the methodologies of Six Sigma.

Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma

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Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
Solve the problems using the Six Sigma methodologies.
Check your answers against the solutions provided.

Create a Six Sigma process map

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Creating a process map will help you to visualize the steps in a process and identify areas for improvement.

Browse courses on Process Mapping

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Identify the process you want to map.
Break the process down into steps.
Create a flowchart of the process.

Mentor a Lean Six Sigma student

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Mentoring a student will help you to solidify your understanding of Lean Six Sigma and help others to learn.

Browse courses on Lean Six Sigma

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Find a student who is interested in learning about Lean Six Sigma.
Meet with the student regularly to discuss their progress.
Provide guidance and support as needed.

Implement a Six Sigma project

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Implementing a Six Sigma project will give you hands-on experience with the methodologies and tools of Six Sigma.

Browse courses on Six Sigma

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Identify a problem or opportunity to improve.
Define the scope of the project.
Collect and analyze data.
Develop and implement a solution.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Lean Six Sigma for Sustainable and Resilient Supply Chains will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Six Sigma Black Belt

Six Sigma Black Belts are experts in Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies. They lead and manage Six Sigma projects, and they train and mentor other Six Sigma practitioners. This course is highly relevant to Six Sigma Black Belts as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, and it prepares students to lead and manage Six Sigma projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Six Sigma Black Belt

Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Lean Manufacturing Engineers design and implement Lean manufacturing systems to improve efficiency and productivity. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course is highly relevant to Lean Manufacturing Engineers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for designing and implementing effective Lean manufacturing systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Process Improvement Specialist

Process Improvement Specialists identify and analyze inefficiencies in business processes and develop and implement solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities, and they use Lean Six Sigma principles and tools to develop and implement solutions. This course is highly relevant to Process Improvement Specialists as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for developing and implementing effective process improvements.

See salaries and explore the career path for Process Improvement Specialist

Supply Chain Manager

Supply Chain Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. They work with suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors to ensure that products are delivered to customers on time, in good condition, and at a competitive price. This course is highly relevant to Supply Chain Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of supply chain problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Manager

Manufacturing Manager

Manufacturing Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing manufacturing operations. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course is highly relevant to Manufacturing Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for managing manufacturing operations effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Manager

Quality Assurance Manager

Quality Assurance Managers are responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance programs to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements. They work with other departments to identify and resolve quality issues, and they monitor and evaluate quality performance. This course is highly relevant to Quality Assurance Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Six Sigma principles and tools, which are essential for developing and managing effective quality assurance programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Managers are responsible for developing and implementing continuous improvement programs within organizations. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities, and they develop and implement solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. This course is highly relevant to Continuous Improvement Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for developing and implementing effective continuous improvement programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Continuous Improvement Manager

Operations Manager

Operations Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing business operations. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course is highly relevant to Operations Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for managing business operations effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Supply Chain Analyst

Supply Chain Analysts analyze supply chain data to identify inefficiencies and develop and implement solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities, and they use data analysis techniques to develop and implement solutions. This course is highly relevant to Supply Chain Analysts as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of supply chain problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Supply Chain Analyst

Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineers design and implement efficient and effective production systems. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course is highly relevant to Industrial Engineers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which are essential for designing and implementing effective production systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Engineer

Quality Engineer

Quality Engineers develop and implement quality assurance programs to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements. They work with other departments to identify and resolve quality issues, and they monitor and evaluate quality performance. This course is highly relevant to Quality Engineers as it provides a comprehensive overview of Six Sigma principles and tools, which are essential for developing and managing effective quality assurance programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Engineer

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop and implement solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course may be useful for Business Analysts as it provides a foundation in Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of business analysis tasks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Project Manager

Project Managers plan, implement, and manage projects to achieve specific goals. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course may be useful for Project Managers as it provides a foundation in Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of project management tasks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. They work with cross-functional teams to identify and eliminate waste and improve the flow of materials and information. This course may be useful for Data Analysts as it provides a foundation in Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of data analysis tasks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use advanced analytical techniques to help organizations make better decisions. They identify problems, develop mathematical models, and analyze data to find solutions that improve efficiency and productivity. This course may be useful for aspiring Operations Research Analysts as it provides a foundation in Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, which can be applied to a wide range of operational problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst