In the fast-paced world of business improvement, certifications have long served as the golden ticket to credibility. But in recent years, whispers from the Lean Six Sigma community hint at a growing concern—has the value of certification begun to erode under the weight of oversaturation?
Let’s dig into this unfolding story.
The Rise of the Certification Economy
Once upon a time, earning a Lean Six Sigma certification was akin to joining an elite club. You spent months (sometimes years) in rigorous training, dissecting processes, mastering DMAIC, and learning to wield statistical tools like a black-belt ninja. The result? A badge of honor that signified expertise and a commitment to operational excellence.
But now, certifications seem to be as common as office mugs. A quick Google search reveals a dizzying array of programs promising you a Lean Six Sigma belt in as little as a weekend. No prerequisites, no projects—just click “Add to Cart.” And voila! You’re certified.
This convenience has fueled a booming certification economy, but it’s also sparked a simmering debate in the community: Are all certifications created equal?
From Prestige to Commodity
The allure of quick-and-easy certifications has brought accessibility to many, which is a good thing in theory. However, it also risks devaluing the currency of expertise.
Imagine two candidates. One has spent months leading a complex process improvement project in a multinational organization, applying Lean Six Sigma tools to save millions of dollars. The other? They earned their certification online over the weekend without ever stepping foot in a workplace.
If both candidates hold the same belt, how do hiring managers—or colleagues—distinguish between the seasoned practitioner and the newcomer?
The growing accessibility of certifications raises an uncomfortable question: Is the Lean Six Sigma badge still a meaningful symbol of skill, or has it become just another checkbox?
The “Pay-to-Play” Dilemma
Another point of contention is cost. Certifications often come with hefty price tags, with some programs charging thousands of dollars for a belt. While investing in education is critical, this paywall has also created an ecosystem where wealth, rather than skill, can sometimes dictate who gets certified.
Worse yet, there’s the proliferation of questionable “diploma mill” programs—providers offering cheap, fast-track certifications with little to no rigor. This undermines the credibility of the entire certification landscape.
What Does This Mean for the Community?
These developments beg the question: What should the Lean Six Sigma community do to preserve the value of certifications? Here are a few thoughts:
1. Standardization Matters
Organizations like ASQ and IASSC set the gold standard for Lean Six Sigma certification, emphasizing rigorous training, exams, and project experience. Perhaps the industry needs a universal benchmark to separate credible certifications from imposters.
2. Beyond the Belt
Certification is just the beginning. Practitioners must demonstrate their skills in real-world scenarios. Case studies, project portfolios, and ongoing education could serve as valuable additions to a resume.
3. Reframing the Narrative
Let’s shift the focus from “getting certified” to “creating impact.” After all, the ultimate goal of Lean Six Sigma is to drive measurable improvements, not just decorate resumes.
Final Thoughts: The Value Is in the Work
The Lean Six Sigma badge, while still a powerful credential, is no longer enough to distinguish the true masters from the casual learners. It’s the work you do, the projects you lead, and the results you deliver that truly define your expertise.
So, if you’re a belt-holder, challenge yourself to go beyond the certificate. And if you’re hiring, ask candidates to show you their impact, not just their credentials.
Because at the end of the day, the value of Lean Six Sigma isn’t in the belt around your waist—it’s in the difference you make.
What are your thoughts? Have you seen the certification landscape change over the years? Share your insights below—we’d love to hear from you.
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