Blog - Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc. (SSDSI)

I teach Lean and Six Sigma classes all over the U.S. (as well as abroad) and a good number of the students that I teach aren’t from an organization. These students are unemployed and looking for a “resume booster”. Most of them are somewhat fearful of making the investment in a Lean and/or Six Sigma certification because they cannot “wrap their heads around” how they are going to take on a cost savings project when they do not presently work for an organization. Well, let’s explore this quandary …


There are many organizations struggling in the U.S., especially now in the economic “downturn” that need help. There are many Small to mid size for profit organizations that presently do not have the means to hire a consultant. I ask my students if they know of any of these companies, and I always get a resounding “yes”. I ask them “what is the worst they can tell you when you offer a “pro bono” Lean and/or Six Sigma project to help them improve?”.

There are many non-profit organizations that are struggling to serve their communities because they do not have the talent to “streamline” processes. I ask my students, “is there a food bank in the area?” This is a perfect place for a project.

The one place I always bring up as a source for potential projects are students local churches, or other places of worship. What better organization to improve! I have had some great projects that helped to improve the operations and financial means of student’s local churches.

Remember, Lean and Six Sigma are not just for employees, but they are for anyone who can look at any process systemically and see that it can be improved.

“Until the next thought …”

Kevin Clay
479-739-4940
kclay@sixsigmadsi.com
http://www.sixsigmadsi.com/