Green Belts are those employees who are trained to implement Six Sigma projects under the guidance of the Black Belts to achieve the desired goals. They carry out these activities along with their regular responsibilities. Green Belts spend around 25-50% percent of their time involved in the Six Sigma projects. They are aware of all the important activities that they have to carry out.
They should be able to explain the importance of the y=f(x) formula to the business and the processes. They are trained in the various tools needed to carry out the data collection and for validating the measurement system. They are also well-trained on DMAIC methodology and statistics.
The Black Belt coach imparts detailed instructions on the statistics and creation of histograms and pareto diagrams. This experience is valuable, and their prowess with Six Sigma methods helps them in getting promotions and incentives within the organization.
Upper management also reviews the Six Sigma Green Belts' projects and provides the necessary feedback on developments and shortfalls in the project path.
Monitor Project Progress
Six Sigma Green Belts are selected by the management team to receive either Six Sigma online or classroom training, or a combination of both on Six Sigma methods, tools and techniques. However, the Six Sigma training they receive on these tools is generally less than what Black Belts receive. The Black Belts carry out cross-functional responsibilities.
Green Belts carry out the project for their own areas of operations. Each company has its own set of Six Sigma certification requirements, which may include the completion of Six Sigma online training, written or online exams and completion of a project. Green Belts may be given incentives by companies to complete a project or even Six Sigma certification.
However, another company most likely will not recognize the certification of one company. Some companies require one project to be carried out to maintain the certifications. They need to carry out meetings with Black Belt coaches to review the project progress and seek improvements.
Understanding Benefits
With the Green Belts training, they are able to understand the benefits and gains out of the project success. They understand the relevance of the project to make the processes easier and the overall effect of it on the team and the organization as a whole.
Timely completion of the Six Sigma project is necessary before the tollgate review. Green Belts have to plan properly and stay in control of the progress of the project. The project should be strictly based on data; if Green Belt has no knowledge of finance, the Green Belt project will give them an opportunity to learn it, know about the issues faced by management, and to quantify the benefits.
Carry Out Tests
Six Sigma Green Belts know that tools exist, though they may not be using them. They will be able to calculate the average and standard deviation from the set standards of the various metrics; however, they are business professionals and not quality controllers. They will be able to carry out statistical tests using software such as Minitab and JMP.
Green Belts should be aware of the importance of preparing the Fishbone diagram to understand the basis of process defects. They will be able to help their bosses and co-workers by preventing defects. This will also help them in winning support for the Six Sigma project. Green Belts should be able to form a base for change with less resistance from co-workers, if they have shown visible improvements in the processes and the output.
Green Belts should start their projects only after top management commits to the necessary resources for improvement. They should share information with others above them, their co-workers and others who have a stake in the growth of the company.
These are a few things that the Green Belts should know. The list, though, goes on and on.
The Six Sigma trained Green Belts undertake short projects that do not require extensive training. Some organizations are now training the Green Belts for two to three years before they consider hiring Black Belts.
This helps them save a lot of time, training and investment on Black Belts.
Road Map for Green Belts
Green Belts are change agents who carry out the Six Sigma duties along with their regular responsibilities. Typically, they would be putting in up to 5% of their time into Six Sigma activities. The Black Belts undertake projects which are cross- functional in nature. However, the Green Belts would be handling small projects in particular process level.
These projects are short and relevant for the process in consideration. However small, they have a tremendous impact on the enterprise. Thus, minor problem areas and waste are sorted out at a quick pace. The Black Belts usually assist with multiple projects being handled by Green Belts.
Organizations that do not have experienced Black Belts to handle bigger projects have to build a roadmap to tackle certain issues. In such cases, the Green Belts can be very valuable. They have to review the processes and figures related to the process and use this information to improve the satisfaction level of the customers.
They also have to undertake the roles of Six Sigma project originators and leaders, displaying exemplary skills in local process areas.
Training and Skills of Six Sigma Green Belts
Six Sigma training involves using the DMAIC model to get the desired results. The Green Belts need to understand the processes, the constraints involved and create a road map for improvement of such areas. They must also be able to learn the usage and the creation of the process behavior charts.
Another tool that they can utilize is QFD (Quality function Deployment), which enables them to understand in-depth customer requirements. The reduction in defects ensures that there is minimum wastage as well as improved customer satisfaction. The Green Belts should be able to approach the customers to understand their needs and the quality they expect.
Green Belts have to utilize the DMAIC model as a problem solving measure, for which they are well-trained. They should also be aware of control charts, which allow them to monitor and control process progress. With a communication plan in hand that is reviewed regularly, they can ensure the success of the project.
Many organizations require most of their employees to undertake Six Sigma training. This makes it possible to handle projects with low resistance.
The Green Belts have to undergo five days of classroom training. The training covers all the basic Six Sigma tools and concepts, project management, descriptive data analysis and quality control tools. The role of the Green Belts is critical to the success of any Six Sigma project. A proper road map for Green Belts is just as relevant as a roadmap for the entire Six Sigma project.
Tony Jacowski has sinced written about articles on various topics from University, Six Sigma and Information Technology. Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online and certification classes for six sigma pro. Tony Jacowski's top article generates over 90500 views. to your Favourites.