(QI Macros: Denver) -- Jay Arthur, author of Lean Six Sigma Demystified (McGraw-Hill Business, 2010) and QI Macros for Excel, has spotted new trends driving changes in Six Sigma. The recent recession has made every company more focused on reducing costs and boosting profits. Because lean Six Sigma can achieve these benefits, more companies have become interested in the methodology, but they want to maximize results while minimizing the risks and costs.

Companies are asking, “Isn’t there a better way to implement lean Six Sigma?” The 10- to 20-day “Belt” certifications that span several months are too expensive and slow for most companies recovering from the recession.

“Companies don’t need lots of training and belts,” says Arthur.

 …