Six Sigma Standards
Free, Open-Source Standards for Six Sigma Certification
Why These Standards Exist
Six Sigma has become one of the most widely recognized methods for improving processes and building efficiency in organizations. Yet, the standards and expectations for certification have often been inconsistent, locked behind paywalls, or defined only by private companies. This can make it difficult for learners, professionals, and training providers to have a clear, unified understanding of what a Six Sigma credential should represent.The purpose of these standards is to provide a free, open-source reference that anyone can access. They are not owned by a single organization or restricted to a particular provider. Instead, they are designed to serve as a common framework that ensures consistency, transparency, and fairness across Six Sigma education and certification programs.These standards are intended for:Students who want to understand what they should be learning when pursuing a Six Sigma credential.Professionals who want to evaluate training options and ensure their certification meets recognized criteria.Training providers who want to align their courses with accepted best practices without being locked into costly or proprietary models.By making these standards open and freely available, the goal is to support the global Six Sigma community with a foundation that is credible, accessible, and beneficial to all.
Standards
The standards listed below represent the official open-source framework for Six Sigma certification at every level, including White Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt, and Black Belt. They have been created to provide a consistent, transparent foundation that any individual or organization can rely on, without the barriers of cost or exclusivity.All organizations are authorized to use these standards freely in their training and certification programs. Whether you are a university, a corporate training department, or an independent provider, you are welcome to align your courses and exams with these guidelines.For organizations that would like to formally demonstrate compliance, an optional one-time registration is available below to certify that your program follows the open-source Six Sigma Standards.
Six Sigma White Belt Standard
IntroductionThe Six Sigma White Belt is the entry point into the world of process improvement. At this level, students are introduced to the history, principles, and structure of Six Sigma, along with the fundamental Lean concepts that support it. The White Belt does not prepare individuals to lead projects, but it provides the essential foundation needed to understand Six Sigma methods and to support process improvement initiatives within an organization.White Belt training emphasizes awareness and understanding. Students learn what Six Sigma is, why it is used, and how the DMAIC problem-solving framework creates a structured path for improvement. They also gain familiarity with the Six Sigma belt system, the roles within projects, and the basic Lean philosophy of eliminating waste.History of Six SigmaDescription: Students are introduced to the origins of Six Sigma, its development at Motorola in the 1980s, and its rise as a global methodology for reducing defects and improving quality.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain where Six Sigma came from and why it is used in business.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: UnderstandThe DMAIC MethodDescription: DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) is the core methodology of Six Sigma. Students learn the purpose of each phase and why all Six Sigma projects follow this structured path.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to describe the DMAIC process and define its phases.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: UnderstandWhy is DMAIC UsedDescription: Students explore why organizations adopt the DMAIC framework, focusing on its ability to improve efficiency, reduce variation, and provide sustainable results.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain why DMAIC is applied in organizations as a problem-solving method.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: UnderstandSix Sigma BeltsDescription: Students are introduced to the belt hierarchy, from White Belt through Master Black Belt, and the role of the Six Sigma Champion.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to identify and explain the different Six Sigma belt levels.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: UnderstandSix Sigma RolesDescription: Each belt level corresponds to specific roles within a Six Sigma project, ranging from awareness and support to leadership and strategic oversight.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain how belt levels correspond to roles in Six Sigma projects.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: UnderstandBasics of LeanDescription: Students are introduced to Lean principles, focusing on the elimination of waste and the improvement of process flow.Learning Outcome: Students will be able to describe the basics of Lean and how it complements Six Sigma.Bloom's Taxonomy Level: Understand
Six Sigma Yellow Belt Standard
IntroductionThe Six Sigma Yellow Belt is the next step after the White Belt, designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of Six Sigma and Lean concepts, as well as the ability to actively participate in improvement projects. At this level, learners are introduced to the DMAIC methodology in more detail, along with fundamental Lean tools, basic statistics, and quality improvement methods.Yellow Belt holders are not expected to lead projects, but they play a critical supporting role. They may assist in data collection, process mapping, and basic analysis, working alongside Green Belts and Black Belts to identify improvement opportunities. The Yellow Belt standard ensures that participants understand the language, methods, and tools of Six Sigma well enough to contribute meaningfully to organizational improvement initiatives.Introduction to Lean Six SigmaDescription: Students learn the history, benefits, and key roles associated with Lean Six Sigma.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain the purpose and advantages of Lean Six Sigma and identify the different roles within an organization.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandOverview of Six SigmaDescription: Students explore the core concepts of Six Sigma, including the DMAIC methodology and how it compares to DMADV.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to describe the main Six Sigma methodologies and differentiate between DMAIC and DMADV.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandLean PrinciplesDescription: Students are introduced to Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and the identification of waste.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain the purpose of Value Stream Mapping, describe the steps of 5S, and identify the types of waste in a process.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandDMAIC MethodologyDescription: Students learn an overview of the five phases of
DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and the common tools applied in each.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to summarize the five phases of DMAIC and identify when to use key tools.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandDefine PhaseDescription: Students learn about the use of project charters, Voice of the Customer (VOC), and SIPOC diagrams to establish project scope and objectives.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to apply tools to define the problem and scope of a project.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyMeasure PhaseDescription: Students gain knowledge of data collection methods and the use of basic metrics to evaluate process performance.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to collect relevant data and calculate simple performance metrics.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyAnalyze PhaseDescription: Students learn how to use process mapping and cause-and-effect techniques to identify sources of variation and problems.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze process data to determine potential root causes of issues.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyImprove PhaseDescription: Students are introduced to brainstorming techniques and methods for selecting effective solutions.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to propose and evaluate potential solutions to process problems.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyControl PhaseDescription: Students learn about control plans and monitoring methods to sustain improvements over time.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to develop a simple control plan and describe methods for monitoring process performance.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyBasic StatisticsDescription: Students are introduced to descriptive statistics and probability as tools for understanding process data.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain and calculate simple descriptive statistics and apply probability concepts to process analysis.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandRoot Cause AnalysisDescription: Students learn structured problem-solving tools such as the Fishbone Diagram and 5 Whys.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to conduct a root cause analysis using the Fishbone Diagram and 5 Whys method.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeQuality ToolsDescription: Students are introduced to basic quality tools such as flowcharts, check sheets, and Pareto charts.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to create and interpret basic quality tools to support process analysis and improvement.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: Apply
Six Sigma Green Belt Standard
Introduction
The Six Sigma Green Belt builds on the knowledge established in the White Belt and Yellow Belt standards. Students pursuing the Green Belt should already have a solid understanding of the history of Six Sigma, DMAIC methodology, Lean principles, and the tools introduced at the Yellow Belt level.At the Green Belt level, learners expand into more advanced concepts and gain the ability to lead smaller projects or support larger ones under the guidance of Black Belts. The Green Belt focuses on advanced Lean tools, Six Sigma metrics, project management techniques, statistical methods, and structured approaches to process improvement that enable meaningful and measurable organizational impact.Introduction to Lean Six Sigma
Description: Students deepen their knowledge of Lean Six Sigma, including organizational structure and the broader benefits of Six Sigma implementation.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain how Lean Six Sigma integrates into organizational structures and supports strategic goals.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandAdvanced Lean Principles
Description: Students explore advanced Lean tools such as Kanban, Kaizen, Just-In-Time (JIT), and Continuous Flow, focusing on waste reduction and process efficiency.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to describe and apply advanced Lean tools to identify and eliminate waste.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandAdvanced Six Sigma
Description: Students study Six Sigma metrics such as Defects Per Million Opportunities (DPMO), Critical to Quality (CTQ) factors, and the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to interpret and apply Six Sigma metrics to evaluate process performance and business impact.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandProject Management
Description: Students learn how to select projects, develop project charters, and conduct stakeholder analysis to ensure successful improvement initiatives.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to select appropriate projects and apply project management tools to organize and guide improvement efforts.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyDefine Phase
Description: Students gain experience developing problem statements, gathering Voice of the Customer (VOC) insights, building SIPOC diagrams, and finalizing project charters.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to apply Define Phase tools to clearly articulate project scope and customer requirements.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyMeasure Phase
Description: Students expand their measurement skills with advanced process mapping, structured data collection plans, and the application of basic statistical methods.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to design a data collection plan and apply statistical tools to measure process performance.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyAnalyze Phase
Description: Students learn advanced analysis methods, including root cause analysis, Value Stream Mapping, and Pareto analysis, to identify drivers of variation.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze process data to determine root causes and prioritize improvement opportunities.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeImprove Phase
Description: Students explore brainstorming methods, structured solution development, and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to evaluate risks.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to develop solutions and use FMEA to evaluate their effectiveness and risks.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateControl Phase
Description: Students learn advanced control methods such as Control Plans, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and sustainability practices to ensure long-term improvement.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to create control plans and apply SPC tools to maintain improvements.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateAdvanced Statistics
Description: Students study probability distributions and sampling techniques to ensure reliable and valid data analysis.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to select appropriate probability distributions and use sampling techniques effectively.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeHypothesis Testing
Description: Students learn the fundamentals of hypothesis testing, including null and alternative hypotheses, significance levels, and p-values.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to conduct hypothesis testing to evaluate process changes.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeRegression Analysis
Description: Students are introduced to simple and multiple regression techniques and correlation analysis for exploring relationships between variables.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to perform regression analysis and interpret results to support process improvement.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: Analyze
Six Sigma Black Belt Standard
Introduction
The Six Sigma Black Belt standard builds on the knowledge and skills established at the Green Belt level. Students pursuing Black Belt certification are expected to already understand all concepts covered in the White, Yellow, and Green Belt standards.At the Black Belt level, students move from primarily applying tools to leading projects and driving organizational change. The focus shifts to advanced Lean and Six Sigma methods, leadership and change management, advanced statistics, project management techniques, and the ability to integrate Lean Six Sigma into both service and manufacturing environments. Black Belts are expected to lead cross-functional teams, mentor Green Belts, and demonstrate how Six Sigma projects deliver measurable financial and strategic impact to the organization.
Introduction to Lean Six SigmaDescription: Students review the history, benefits, and organizational structure of Lean Six Sigma, with an emphasis on how it fits into business culture.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain how Lean Six Sigma integrates into organizational structures and drives continuous improvement culture.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandAdvanced Lean Principles
Description: Students expand their Lean knowledge into areas such as Kanban, Kaizen, Just-In-Time (JIT), Continuous Flow, and Lean culture.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to describe advanced Lean principles and explain how they support efficiency and waste reduction across an organization.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandAdvanced Six Sigma
Description: Students learn advanced Six Sigma metrics, Critical to Quality (CTQ) measures, the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ), and how Six Sigma contributes to cultural transformation.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to interpret Six Sigma metrics and explain their influence on organizational performance and culture.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: UnderstandLeadership and Change Management
Description: Students study leadership models, stakeholder engagement, and change management strategies necessary for leading teams and driving organizational adoption of Six Sigma.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate change management models and apply leadership skills to manage stakeholders and lead teams.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateDefine Phase
Description: Students develop advanced problem statements, apply VOC techniques, create SIPOC diagrams, build project charters, and construct high-level process maps.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to apply Define Phase tools to establish clear project scope and direction.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyMeasure Phase
Description: Students conduct detailed process mapping, develop data collection plans, and perform Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to apply measurement system analysis and design effective measurement strategies.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: ApplyAnalyze Phase
Description: Students perform advanced root cause analysis, Value Stream Mapping, Pareto analysis, and detailed process mapping.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze process data using advanced mapping and analysis techniques to uncover root causes.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeImprove Phase
Description: Students use brainstorming, structured solution development, FMEA, and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) to implement effective improvements.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate solutions using FMEA and DFSS to ensure improvements are robust and sustainable.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateControl Phase
Description: Students develop control plans, implement Statistical Process Control (SPC), standardize processes, and create sustainability systems.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate and implement control measures to sustain long-term improvements.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateAdvanced Statistics
Description: Students study probability distributions, sampling techniques, and advanced statistical analysis.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze data using probability distributions and advanced sampling methods.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeHypothesis Testing
Description: Students conduct advanced hypothesis testing, including null and alternative hypotheses, significance testing, and p-value interpretation.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to design and perform hypothesis tests for complex process evaluations.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeRegression Analysis
Description: Students learn simple and multiple regression, logistic regression, correlation analysis, and ANOVA.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze relationships between variables using regression and correlation methods.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeDesign of Experiments (DOE)
Description: Students apply experimental design techniques including factorial designs, response surface methodology, and Taguchi methods.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate process variables using DOE to optimize performance.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateControl Charts
Description: Students learn types of control charts, their interpretation, implementation, and advanced applications.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate control charts to monitor and control process performance.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateRisk Management
Description: Students apply advanced risk management methods including FMEA, risk mitigation planning, and contingency planning.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate risks and develop mitigation and contingency plans for process improvement projects.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateFinancial Impact
Description: Students learn to assess projects through cost-benefit analysis, ROI calculations, and cost of quality measures.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze the financial impact of Six Sigma projects using cost-benefit and ROI metrics.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeProject Management
Description: Students explore advanced project management techniques, including project selection, charters, stakeholder analysis, and managing complex projects.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate and apply project management methods to lead cross-functional Six Sigma projects.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateLean Six Sigma in Services
Description: Students learn how to apply Lean Six Sigma to service processes, including service process mapping and service-specific metrics.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze service processes and apply Lean principles to improve service efficiency.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeLean Six Sigma in Manufacturing
Description: Students apply Lean Six Sigma to manufacturing environments through process mapping, Lean manufacturing principles, and performance metrics.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to analyze manufacturing processes using Lean Six Sigma tools.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: AnalyzeStrategic Planning
Description: Students learn strategic tools such as Hoshin Kanri, Balanced Scorecard, and goal setting for aligning Six Sigma with organizational objectives.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate and apply strategic planning methods to align projects with organizational goals.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateLean Six Sigma Deployment
Description: Students learn deployment planning, communication strategies, and assessing organizational readiness.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate organizational readiness and create deployment plans for Six Sigma initiatives.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: EvaluateCoaching and Mentoring
Description: Students develop coaching and mentoring skills to support Green Belts and other team members.
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to evaluate and apply coaching methods to develop the capabilities of others.
Bloom’s Taxonomy Level: Evaluate
Free Digital Badge For Your Website
The badge below is free to use and signifies that you or your organization align your Six Sigma training with a recognized Six Sigma standard. You are encouraged to copy the badge (right click and save image) and display it on your website or digital materials. When placing the badge on your site, please ensure it links back to sixsigmastandards.org so that visitors can verify alignment with the open-source Six Sigma Standards.
Notes:
These standards are open source and may be freely used by any organization. They are intended as a baseline framework for Six Sigma education and certification. Organizations are welcome to modify or expand upon these standards if they wish to teach additional material beyond what is outlined here. Special thanks to the following organizations: ASQ, ANSI, Management and Strategy Institute, International Organization for Standardization, International Association of Training Providers, and Six Sigma Certification Education.