Many of my Six Sigma Green Belt and Six Sigma Black Belt students have asked me these questions:

• Which certification should I go for ASQ(American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certifications)?
• Which of these to certificates is most valued - ASQ or IASSC?

Let's understand a few key facts before I talk about these two certifications.

1. There is no global central accreditation agency for Six Sigma certifications. Numerous bodies offer Six Sigma certifications. For that matter, anyone can issue a Six Sigma certification.

Because of this fact:

• a) you should spend money on only those certifications which are globally recognized by employers.
• b) Your focus should be on getting the knowledge, rather than the certificate.
  

2. There is nothing better than attending the in-house Six Sigma training provided by your organization supported by completing a project. In-house courses will give you the best experience and knowledge. However, this does not work for many people, who want to upgrade their knowledge and learn Six Sigma concepts, when the organization is not interested in formally implementing the Six Sigma program.

ASQ vs IASSC

Let's quickly look at the similarities and difference between these two certifications.

Both of these certificates are well recognized globally. As far as my personal opinion is concerned, I am inclined more towards ASQ certification. I prefer ASQ certification, and hence I have personally gone for ASQ CSSGB and CSSBB certifications.

Body of Knowledge:

The Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control (DMAIC) components of the ASQ and IASSC Bodies of Knowledge are almost identical. However there are some additional knowledge requirements in the ASQ Body of Knowledge.

Exam:

IASSC exam is a closed book exam, while the ASQ exam is an open book exam. This means for IASSC exam you will need to memorize a lot. In case of the ASQ exam, your emphasis should be understanding the concepts rather than memorizing. 

Green Belt:

Eligibility:

Cost of Exam:

Black Belt:

A significant factor in choosing between ASQ and IASSC certification is whether you have completed a Six Sigma project in the past or not. ASQ needs you to provide one or two project completion affidavits signed off by your supervisor confirming that you have completed Six Sigma project in the past.

There is no project completion requirement for IASSC certification.

Eligibility:

Cost of Exam: