ICGB

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (ICGB) exam focuses on the practical application of Lean Six Sigma principles and tools. The main points covered can be broadly categorized as follows:

1. Lean Principles and Tools:

• Value Stream Mapping (VSM): Creating, analyzing, and improving VSMs is a core component. Expect questions on identifying waste (Muda), analyzing process flow, and developing future-state maps.
• Lean Thinking: Understanding the five principles of Lean (Value, Value Stream, Flow, Pull, Perfection) and how they are applied in real-world scenarios.
• Kaizen and Continuous Improvement: Knowledge of Kaizen events, the PDCA cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act), and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Waste Elimination (Muda): Identifying and classifying the seven (or eight) wastes (Transportation, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Overproduction, Over-processing, Defects, and potentially Non-Utilized Talent).
• 5S Methodology: Understanding and implementing 5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain).
• Pull Systems (Kanban): Understanding the principles of pull systems and how Kanban is used to manage workflow.

2. Six Sigma Principles and Tools:

• DMAIC Methodology: A deep understanding of the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology is crucial. Expect questions on each phase and the tools used within each phase.
• Define Phase: Defining the project scope, objectives, and customer requirements (CTQs – Critical To Quality characteristics).
• Measure Phase: Collecting and analyzing data to understand the current process performance. This includes understanding different data types and descriptive statistics.
• Analyze Phase: Identifying the root causes of variation and defects using tools like Pareto charts, fishbone diagrams (Ishikawa diagrams), and process capability analysis.
• Improve Phase: Developing and implementing solutions to address the root causes.
• Control Phase: Monitoring and controlling the improved process to ensure sustained gains. Control charts are a key tool here.
• Statistical Process Control (SPC): Understanding and interpreting control charts (X-bar and R charts, p-charts, c-charts).
• Process Capability Analysis (Cp, Cpk): Determining whether a process is capable of meeting customer requirements.
• Hypothesis Testing: Understanding basic hypothesis testing concepts and applying them to analyze data.

3. Project Management:

• Project Charter: Defining the project scope, objectives, and resources.
• Project Planning and Execution: Managing project timelines, resources, and risks.
• Stakeholder Management: Identifying and managing stakeholders' expectations.
• Communication and Reporting: Effectively communicating project progress and results.

4. Understanding of Data and its Analysis:

• Descriptive Statistics: Calculating and interpreting measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) and dispersion (range, standard deviation).
• Data Visualization: Creating and interpreting charts and graphs (histograms, scatter plots, box plots).

It's important to note that the exam emphasizes practical application rather than theoretical knowledge. You should be prepared to apply these tools and techniques to solve real-world problems. Many practice questions and case studies will help you solidify your understanding.