Learning a Thing or Two about Ethics for Six Sigma
Anyone who is in business understands that there is a professional code of ethics that everyone should follow. There must be a firm commitment to doing the best job possible and making the best decisions possible. Every industry has a certain code of ethics that it will follow, including Six Sigma.
Six Sigma is a process of reducing defects by analyzing methods and searching for ways to improve upon business processes to create high quality ‘perfect’ products and services. Strategies for change and improvement are then introduced and recommended. There are several levels of a Six Sigma professionals and each is required to adhere to the code of ethics.
The top level of the certifications in Six Sigma is the Black Belt. These professionals act as leaders on projects, designing and implementing plans, delegating responsibilities, choosing team members and informing all company executives of any plans of action. At this level, the professional knows a great deal about the methods of Six Sigma and has experience leading projects through to successful completion.
These are the professionals who will adhere to and train the lower certified Green and Yellow Belt members how to follow the code of ethics. The first pillar in code of ethics is to have a firm commitment to the client. This means that the professional will treat the client with respect and will deal with all issues with integrity, reliability and competence. They will make sure they meet the expectations of the company executives and will be confident in all they do.
The second pillar is a commitment to fiscal integrity. A professional should always disclose if any part of their recommendations will affect their personal finances. In other words, if a Six Sigma professional suggests using a particular parts store for a computer part that needs to be updated or replaced, they should disclose to their client if they have a stake in that particular parts store.
The last pillar is holding a strong commitment to the profession and the public. It is always important that anyone representing the Six Sigma theories be a professional through and through, respecting others, regardless of their differences. They should never be deceptive in any way or create more problems for the company than good because they have not thoroughly examined all parts of their particular project due to personal distractions.
Six Sigma may be a process by which people improve their business procedures but professionals who represent that process should uphold the highest degree of moral standards and integrity.