The Orange Belt is the least known Six Sigma belt, but that doesn’t mean it’s not important. In fact, the Orange Belt is an integral part of the Six Sigma hierarchy. Coming after the introductory White Belt and basic Yellow Belt levels, Orange Belt appears before the oft-lauded Green Belt. As a matter of fact, the Orange Belt is frequently forgotten about or not bothered with at all. Many training providers or companies seeking training simply jump straight from Yellow to Green Belt. We urge you to reconsider how you may feel about the Orange Belt.
Most people, even fully-fledged Six Sigma certifiers, tend to view Orange Belts as the appendix of the methodology. We, on the other hand, believe it to be a highly advantageous Belt to have on your team. But not only that – we think the Orange Belt is a key figure in the world of Six Sigma work. Here are our reasons why you should consider getting an Orange Belt certification.
Ability to Effectively Manage Change
Like all Six Sigma Belts, Orange Belts have their own exclusive responsibilities with which to contend. Orange Belts usually play a supporting role, much like Yellow Belts or White Belts. (Although the latter rarely see much project work, given that they are only just beginning and likely to continue to Yellow Belt level). However, in the absence of a Green Belt, project leaders may also require them to take on a managerial position. Furthermore, there are multiple approaches to managing change that Orange Belts may wish to adopt.
With an Orange Belt certification, you can utilize both Top-Down and Bottom-Up change management strategies. Orange Belt training is all about opening your mind up to new ideas, preparing you for further study and practical Six Sigma management situations. You can learn and hone both your leadership and your teambuilding skills with Orange Belt certification.
Utilizing Kaizen to Make Lasting Changes
Six Sigma is compatible with various other process improvement philosophies, including Kaizen, or continuous improvement. Orange certification teaches you how to cultivate and maintain a culture of continuous improvement in the workplace. This will strengthen your knowledge of Six Sigma and how it relates to Kaizen. It will also ensure you can manage projects effectively, using established methods to promote and drive change. Tools and strategies like PDCA and the A-3 report are useful here as you continue to adopt a managerial role. Having them in your toolbox will hold you in good stead for your Six Sigma future.
Practical Knowledge of Six Sigma Orange Belt Tools
Each Belt level of the Six Sigma hierarchy comprises various levels of study. Each level of certification devotes itself to different sets of tools and strategies for process improvement. With Orange certification, you will learn the difference between Muda (waste) and Mura (unevenness). You will be introduced to numerous Six Sigma concepts, plus various Lean performance metrics, and useful tools like value stream mapping. Furthermore, Orange Belt training sets you up Green Belt study, as you strengthen your management skills and learn how to create capable processes.
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