Cost: Is More Expensive Six Sigma Training Better ?

For most things in life, the more expensive they are, the better quality they will be. Or, at least, it is usually that way. However, some things, such as tuition price, your house mortgage, and the price of your car, are negotiable. But, does the “sticker price” really determine the quality of the product? For Six Sigma training, the answer is simply “It depends”. In today’s article, we will address the varying prices of multiple programs and outline why certain courses cost more than others.

First, assess the price across multiple training courses.

For Six Sigma, there are three typical varieties of training courses. These include Certificate Courses. Certification Courses, and Training Courses. For a quick run down of each: a Certificate Course will usually only include the exam and, when passed, provide you with a certificate of completion. A Certification Course covers book material, real-life examples, the opportunity to work on a Six Sigma project, and a certification exam. Likewise, a Training Course usually only offers a classroom-like education, focusing on terminology and textbook examples. You will most likely not have a real-life Six Sigma project to work on and will only be tested on the theory.

Once you have determined what type of training program you are seeking, assess the price for multiple courses. If the prices are relatively similar, then it’s a safe bet they will be at a similar standard. However, if prices do vary significantly, move on to the second step: Course Assessment.

Second, review the course material.

While we recommend this step for training programs that vary in prices, it’s also beneficial to do so regardless of the cost. Any reputable Six Sigma training course will provide a brief syllabus of what you can expect to cover. It should Include the course hours, weeks, general topics, what reading material and programming software you need, and what projects (if any) you will work on. Depending on your course, each program should offer roughly the same amount of content within a similar timeframe. Likewise, if the program is more expensive, it should cover more material over a longer period of time. Less expensive programs, the opposite. Use this opportunity to compare programs, see patterns, and determine the exact “bang for your buck!”

Last, request and read reviews of the program.

When in doubt, always request reviews and testimonials from a training program’s coordinator. This step is similar to ones in our previous articles about ‘Due Diligence’ and ‘Asking for Testimonials’ and is rightly important. Feedback from former students can easily determine if a training course is worth the cost you are expected to pain. Many negative reviews from an expensive program is a clear warning sign to look elsewhere. Likewise, consistently positive reviews from a similarly priced program is a safer bet.

When searching for the right Six Sigma training program, the price and time commitment is a large factor in your decision making. Regardless of the certification level, follow these three simple steps to ensure you get the right value for the correct price!