Differences between TQM and Six Sigma:

1. Focus:

TQM: Continuous improvement in all areas.

Six Sigma: Reducing defects and variation.

2. Approach:

TQM: Holistic, organization-wide.

Six Sigma: Project-based, data-driven.

3. Tools:

TQM: Basic quality tools (PDCA, flowcharts).

Six Sigma: Advanced tools (DMAIC, statistical analysis).

4. Training:

TQM: No formal levels.

Six Sigma: Belt system (Green, Black, etc.).

5. Measurement:

TQM: Qualitative and subjective.

Six Sigma: Quantitative, statistical.

6. Origin:

TQM: Developed from quality movements (e.g., Deming).

Six S

igma: Introduced by Motorola in the 1980s.

Lean Six Sigma in education is the application of Lean (waste reduction) and Six Sigma (variation reduction) principles to improve processes in educational institutions.

Key Features:

Focus: Improve student outcomes, administrative efficiency, and teaching quality.

Examples:

Reducing dropout rates

Streamlining admissions

Improving grading accuracy

Reducing delays in course scheduling

Tools Used:

DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control)

Process mapping

Root cause analysis

Goal: Deliver better education with fewer errors, d

elays, and inefficiencies.

Yes, a Six Sigma Black Belt is worth it if you:

✔ Work in process improvement, quality management, or operations

✔ Seek leadership roles or higher salary

✔ Want strong problem-solving and data-driven decision skills

Benefits:

High demand in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, logistics, etc.

Average salary is significantly higher than non-certified roles

Recognized globally

But not worth it if:

You don't work in process-intensive industries

You won’t use the tools practically

Bottom line: Worth it for career growth in q

uality/process roles.

The Six Sigma Green Belt certificate program trains professionals to:

Improve processes using DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control)

Use data-driven tools like histograms, control charts, and Pareto analysis

Assist or lead quality improvement projects

Key features:

Mid-level certification (between Yellow and Black Belt)

Focuses on reducing defects and variability

Often includes a real-world project

Duration: ~2–4 weeks (varies by provider)

Ideal for:

Quality analysts, engineers, operations staff, or anyone involved in

process improvement.

To pass the Six Sigma Green Belt exam, follow these steps:

1. Understand the DMAIC process:

Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control

2. Study core topics:

Process mapping, data collection, basic statistics

Root cause analysis, hypothesis testing

Control charts, FMEA, capability analysis

3. Use a good prep guide or course:

Choose IASSC, ASQ, or institution-based materials

4. Practice sample questions:

Focus on problem-solving, formulas, and interpretation

5. Memorize key formulas and tools:

Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, Z-score

Fishbone diagram, Pareto chart, SIPOC

6. Time management in exam:

Usually ~100 questions in 3 hours

Aim for 60–80% correct (varies by certifying body)

7. Stay calm and focused.

Read questions carefully and eliminate wrong choices

Optional: Do mock

exams and review weak areas before the actual test.

Lean Six Sigma training develops the following skill sets:

1. Problem-solving – Identifying and resolving root causes.

2. Data analysis – Interpreting statistical data (e.g. mean, standard deviation).

3. Process improvement – Streamlining workflows to reduce waste and variation.

4. Project management – Leading structured improvement projects (DMAIC).

5. Team collaboration – Working cross-functionally to implement solutions.

6. Critical thinking – Making data-driven decisions.

7. Communication – Presenting findings and convincing stakeholders.

8. Lean tools – 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping.

9. Quality control tools – Control charts, Pareto analysis, Fishbone diagrams.

10. Change management – Managing resista

nce and ensuring adoption.

Sources to study Six Sigma:

1. Books

The Six Sigma Handbook by Thomas Pyzdek & Paul Keller

Lean Six Sigma for Dummies by John Morgan & Martin Brenig-Jones

2. Online Courses

Coursera (offered by universities)

Udemy (affordable self-paced)

Simplilearn, GreyCampus, GoLeanSixSigma.com

3. Certifying Bodies

ASQ (American Society for Quality)

IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)

CSSC (Council for Six Sigma Certification)

4. Company Training Programs

GE, Motorola, Honeywell, and others offer internal Six Sigma training

5. YouTube Channels

GoLeanSixSigma

iZenBridge

Quality Gurus

6. Forums and Blogs

iSixSigma.com

Elsmar Cove Forums

7. Practice Materials

Mock tests, case studies, DMAI

C project examples from course providers and forums.

Six Sigma in Sales and Marketing is effective when used correctly. Here's how:

Benefits:

1. Improves lead conversion – Analyzes funnel data to reduce drop-offs.

2. Enhances customer satisfaction – Uses VOC (Voice of Customer) tools.

3. Reduces process variation – Standardizes sales pitches, response time.

4. Boosts campaign ROI – Applies DMAIC to optimize campaigns.

5. Forecasts better – Uses statistical tools to improve sales prediction.

Challenges:

Sales processes are less repetitive than manufacturing.

Requires strong change management.

Must customize tools (like DMAIC) to fit creative tasks.

Conclusion:

Highly effective if adapted well to the dynamic and people-driven nature of sales/marketing. Many companies use it for CRM improvement, funnel effic

iency, and customer retention.

ASQ Green Belt vs. IQF Green Belt – Comparison:

Feature ASQ (American Society for Quality) IQF (International Quality Federation)

Recognition Highly recognized globally Less recognized internationally

Exam Difficulty More comprehensive & tougher Moderate

Body of Knowledge Extensive and industry-standard Covers basics well, less extensive

Cost Higher (approx. $400–$500) Lower (often under $150)

Recertification Required every 5 years No recertification required

Preferred By Large corporations, industries worldwide Entry-level candidates, cost-conscious learners

Verdict:

Choose ASQ for career credibility, depth, and global recognition.

Choose IQF if you want a budget-friendly, no-expiry certification for foundational knowledge.

For job market value, ASQ is

generally better.