Re: ANyone heard of sixsigmaonline.org?
OK, Tim Let's look at this logically. A quote from the website says
Six Sigma Online courses are an independent, textbook-based structure. Generally speaking, you read the required sections and are tested for proficiency. There are some additional training resources available in our course, however these materials are not required reading for the exams or your certification. They are simply meant to promote a more thorough learning experience.
(Highlight in
red is my emphasis.)
Essentially, this means you buy the books and read them on your own and take a test. I didn't bother reading further to determine if someone proctors the test in a controlled situation or whether you also take the test via internet. If it's the latter, for a few bucks more, you could hire someone to take the test for you and you wouldn't have to even bother reading the books if all you want is the piece of paper.
Alternately, if you really want to learn something about Six Sigma which you might use in a real life situation,there are probably lots less expensive ways to get the book learning AND also come out of the experience actually able to apply Six S tools in a real life situation.
One thing you might do is compare ASQ prices for certifications at
http://www.asq.org/certification/
Where the fee for taking the six igma black belt exam is
Six Sigma Black Belt - CSSBB $420
(non-member)
$260
(member)
Exploring further (click on the
link), you learn some more about the certificaton plus the fact you need to complete a project as a prerequisite to take the exam. Study,though, can be self-directed (reference material list and the Body of Knowledge on which the test will be conducted is provided.)
Many local ASQ Sections also offer courses or study groups where you can join with others to develop your skill and knowledge of six sigma tools and get help and support for a project.
Although I think the ASQ Body of Knowledge (BOK) is "pretty good," there are many whom I respect who feel it has some shortcomings (more shortcoings than I think it has!). At the very least, you should be familiar with most of the stuff in the
BOK, even though it uses "
continuous improvement" versus "
continual improvement" in describing the goal
("continuous" is as impossible as "perpetual motion") of the six sigma program.
Compare the ASQ BOK with other courses and make a decision based on your own personal goal and pocketbook which course might give you more value for your money.
