SSDSI Blog Archives

Which Six Sigma Certification Is Best for Beginners?

The Yellow Belt is the right starting point for Six Sigma beginners. ASQ’s Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CSSYB) has no experience or education requirements. IASSC’s Certified Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt also has no prerequisites. Both bodies officially...

How Caterpillar Used Six Sigma to Hit $30 Billion in Revenue Two Years Early

Caterpillar launched its Six Sigma program in 2001 under CEO Glen Barton. By 2004, the company hit its $30 billion revenue target two years ahead of schedule. Six Sigma drove direct improvements in manufacturing costs, product quality, and order-to-delivery speed. The...

What is Strategic Risk Management? Why It Matters?

Strategic risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and managing risks that threaten an organization’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives. It differs from operational risk management, which focuses on daily processes. ISO 31000 defines...

Is Project Completion Mandatory for Six Sigma Certification?

It depends entirely on which certifying body you choose. ASQ requires at least one completed, real-world project for Black Belt certification. ASQ has no project requirement for Yellow Belt, Green Belt, or Master Black Belt candidates. IASSC requires no project...

Do Six Sigma Certifications Expire? ASQ and IASSC Rules Explained

It depends on which body certified you. ASQ’s Black Belt and Master Black Belt require renewal every three years. ASQ’s Green Belt and Yellow Belt are valid for life. IASSC certifications are recognized perpetually but carry a “Current” status...

What Is Stakeholder Mapping? Why It Matters in Six Sigma Projects

Stakeholder mapping is the process of identifying and visually analyzing everyone who affects or is affected by a project. In Six Sigma, it starts in the Define phase of DMAIC. It helps teams understand who holds power, who has high interest, and how to engage each...