Formal Certification: Independent Organization or Company Issued, Which Way to Go?

       I recently saw a discussion in a LinkedIn group around six sigma certification.  The question is a good one.  Is six sigma black belt certification from ASQ or another respected, accredited organization the way to go or is through your work organization the better path to take?  There is another question which needs to be asked at the same time also.  Do you intend to stay with the organization or do suspect you will eventually seek employment elsewhere?

      If the organization you work for is Motorola, Allied Signal, General Electric, or another recognized as a six sigma leader, a company issued certification is the way to go.  These organizations have credibility producing top shelf six sigma belts.  Individuals selected to six sigma certify go through thorough training, need to demonstrate mastery of the body of knowledge and complete an appropriate project.

      Many other organizations offer six sigma certification but do not have the same level of credibility.  In all likelihood, those organizations have high standards and are as rigorous to certify belt status as the three companies above.  But outside the organization, their certifications are questionable.  In the future, you might apply for a position at another organization and if the company you received certification from is one they never heard of, you could have a problem.

      That’s where ASQ or other credible, accredited organization certification is the path to follow.  ASQ certification is recognized and readily accepted by organizations worldwide whereas a six sigma green belt from XYZ Widgets is not.  The same goes for other quality certifications, along with non-quality certifications such as the PMI PMP, CAPM and PgMP certifications.

      All my quality certifications come from either ASQ or Villanova.  I am a certified quality manager from ASQ and have lean six sigma master black belt certification from Villanova.  I also have ITIL and CMMI certifications.  If I should ever leave the organization where I now work, I know all of these certifications will be recognized as credible and accepted.  Others I know who company certified and then left their organizations had their certifications questioned and in some cases were not recognized at all.  Given the dynamic, readily changing world we live in today, that’s not a risk I suggest anyone take.