In this article, we will explore the differences between Lean certifications: White Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt, and Black Belt. What are the distinctions, how are they structured, and how can you get certified? We’ll explain it all. For a quick overview to get started, here’s the video you need: Watch the video.

The AFNOR NFX 06-091 or ISO 15053 Standard: A Framework for Certifications
In France, the AFNOR NFX 06-091 or ISO 15053 standard outlines the required competencies for each level of Lean certification: Yellow, Green, and Black Belt. This standard, in effect since 2011 and currently under review, distinguishes two main aspects: know-how (Lean tools and methods) and interpersonal skills (change management, leadership, communication).

The Lean Tools: Six Categories
Lean tools are divided into six categories, ranging from the simplest to the most complex:

• Basic Tools: Root Cause Analysis (Ishikawa), 5 Whys, brainstorming, VSM (Value Stream Mapping), OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), red/green analysis, spaghetti diagram.
• Standardized Work: Process analysis, capacity sheets, kitting (logistics kit preparation).
• Autonomation (Jidoka): Poka-yoke, andons, autonomous maintenance (TPM).
• Visual Management: 5S, short interval controls, production standards.
• Pull Systems: Kanban, supermarkets, Milkman system, ABC analysis.
• Production Leveling (Heijunka Box): SMED, batch size calculations, etc.

The Lean Certification Levels
Lean certification levels are structured like a pyramid, with each level bringing increased skills and responsibilities:

White Belt: This level provides a general overview of Lean, including basic knowledge of Lean history, the Lean house, types of waste, and some problem-solving tools (5S, simple methodologies). It’s a short training aimed at familiarizing the entire company with Lean principles.

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Yellow Belt: Yellow Belts can solve problems locally at their workstation using basic Lean tools and standardized work techniques. They assist White Belts and lead small problem-solving projects following the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle.

Access the Yellow Belt training

View the complete Yellow Belt curriculum / Virtual Demo

Green Belt: Green Belts lead more complex projects that cover multiple workstations or an entire production line. They use tools from the first four categories (basic tools, standardized work, autonomation, visual management). They manage budgets, schedules, and teams, and their projects are often fueled by mappings done by Black Belts.

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View the complete Green Belt Manufacturing curriculum / Virtual Demo
View the complete Green Belt Office curriculum / Virtual Demo

Black Belt: Black Belts supervise multiple Green Belt projects, manage strategic initiatives, and use advanced tools (pull systems, production leveling). Their scope of work is broad, covering the entire value chain of an industrial site, including related aspects such as logistics and information systems.

Access the Black Belt training

View the complete Black Belt curriculum / Virtual Demo

MRP Expert: MRP experts oversee multiple process improvement projects, manage strategic planning initiatives, and use advanced tools (inventory management, production scheduling). Their scope of work is extensive, covering the entire value chain of an industrial site, including logistics, information systems, and resource management.

Access the MRP training

View the complete MRP curriculum / Virtual Demo

Practice: The Key to Success
To master Lean, it’s not enough to study theories and tools; practice is essential. Whether through case studies or real projects, developing leadership and change management skills is crucial.

A well-structured training plan, supported by real projects, helps build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills within the company.

Conclusion
A detailed guide exists to help you identify the competencies and tools required at each Lean certification level. A new version of the AFNOR NFX 06-091 or ISO 15053 standard (continuous improvement standard), focused on skills development, will be released soon.

Depending on your sector, constraints, and objectives, the ideal training distribution would be:

• 100% of your teams at the White Belt level
• 50% at the Yellow Belt level
• 10-15% at the Green Belt level
• 2-3% at the Black Belt level.

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