Process Improvement

Operational Excellence

Operational Excellence

Complete Your Journey to Operational Excellence

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new course built for professionals who want to make real change happen. The Operational Excellence Certification combines USF’s Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and Green Belt into one comprehensive program that helps you improve processes and deliver results right away. Operational Excellence is the secret behind success at companies like Amazon, Toyota, and Nike. And now, you can gain the same foundational knowledge they use to streamline operations, increase profits, and improve customer satisfaction.

You’ll learn the full DMAIC process (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), pick up tools you can use immediately, and develop the leadership skills to drive long-term improvements. When you finish, you’ll walk away with three respected credentials that show your commitment to operational excellence - and your ability to lead it.


Course Overview

Introduction to Operational Excellence Certification

  • Combines Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certifications.
  • Provides a complete set of tools for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Earn globally recognized credentials:
    • Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
    • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
    • Operational Excellence Certification

Benefits

  • Significant ROI: On average, organizations report $50,000–$100,000 in annual savings per Green Belt project, and approximately $75,000 per Yellow Belt project, based on data from leading Lean Six Sigma training providers.
  • Practical skills: Ready for immediate application to drive operational excellence in your company or your business.
  • Open to all learners: Ideal for professionals seeking career growth or individuals looking to upskill or reskill.

Program Structure

Operational Excellence is more than just theory - it’s about real-world application. You'll learn how Lean Six Sigma improves efficiency and reduces errors, then master the DMAIC process to solve actual problems. Delve deep into case studies from companies that prioritize organizational improvement and learn how these tools drive operational success. 

Yellow Belt

Section 1: Yellow Belt

In this course, you’ll master the essential principles of Lean Six Sigma, including the introduction of DMAIC methodology - a five-step process that helps you define, measure, analyze, improve, and control business processes to eliminate waste, reduce costs, and drive performance.

Define Phase (8 contact hours over 2 weeks)

Topics covered include:

  • Introduction to the DMAIC process
  • Understanding waste and continuous flow
  • Voice of the Customer (VOC) and customer needs analysis
  • Root cause analysis techniques
  • Value stream mapping vs. process mapping
  • SIPOC diagrams for process overview
  • Project identification: Learn how to select and define a project that will guide your work throughout the course. A successfully identified project is essential for applying Lean Six Sigma tools and is required to complete your Yellow Belt certification.

Learn more about USF’s Yellow Belt Certification 


Section 2: Measurement and Analysis Tools Training

Laptop with Excel

Learn about key measurement and analysis techniques as you gather data, evaluate processes, and uncover insights. Hands-on tools training and reusable tools help you streamline project work and support evidence-based decisions.

Measurement and Analysis Phase (4 contact hours over 1 week)

Topics covered include:

  • Introduction to key measurement and analysis techniques
  • Data gathering methods and best practices
  • Statistical tools for process evaluation
  • Hands-on training for data analysis and visualization
  • Using templates and reusable tools to streamline project work

Section 3: Green Belt

Green Belt

Built on project-based learning, our Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program lets you apply new skills immediately. You’ll complete a project that proves your ability to improve processes and drive results, earning a ºÚÁÏÍø³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏGreen Belt Certification respected across industries.

Improve and Control Phases (9 weeks)

Topics covered include:

  • Identifying improvement opportunities through project analysis
  • Implementing Kaizen events and pilot programs for testing solutions
  • Applying statistical process control (SPC) to monitor improvements
  • Developing visual management strategies for ongoing success
  • Final project presentation showcasing tools, methodology, and results

Learn more about USF’s Green Belt Certification 

Applying What You Learn

This certification goes beyond theory. You’ll complete a real-world project using Operational Excellence tools, building a portfolio that proves your ability to lead meaningful improvements.


Detailed Module Breakdown

Module 1: Fundamental Applications of Lean Six Sigma
Review the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma and explore how continuous improvement drives operational excellence.

Module 2: Define Phase
Develop a project charter, identify customer needs, and establish project goals using Voice of the Customer (VOC) analysis and SIPOC diagramming.

Module 3: Measure Phase
Learn how to gather data, map processes, and establish baseline measurements for improvement initiatives. Apply Measurement and Analysis training and templates introduced in Part 2 of the course.

Module 4: Analyze Phase
Use root cause analysis techniques - including Pareto charts and the 5 Whys method - to uncover the sources of inefficiencies.

Module 5: Improve Phase
Implement solutions through Kaizen events and pilot programs, testing improvements before full implementation.

Module 6: Control Phase
Sustain gains by applying statistical process control methods and developing visual management strategies.

Module 7: Final Project Presentation
Present your completed project, showcasing the tools and methodologies you've applied to deliver measurable improvements.


Badge Credentials

Showcase your achievement with three digital badges issued by ºÚÁÏÍø³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏCTPE upon successful course completion. These verifiable credentials can be proudly displayed on LinkedIn, professional profiles, and resumes. Show off your badges for Yellow Belt, Green Belt, and Operational Excellence!


Why Choose USF?

ºÚÁÏÍø³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏis a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), making our Lean Six Sigma certifications recognized by employers around the world. Our reputation for academic excellence ensures that your certification carries real weight in the job market.

Prestigious credentials: USF’s Lean Six Sigma certifications are trusted by top employers across industries.
Global recognition: As an AAU member, ºÚÁÏÍø³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏis one of the most respected universities in the country. When you earn a certification from USF, it carries weight with employers globally.
Real-world focus: Our program blends academic excellence with practical, hands-on skills that you can apply immediately in your current or future job.
Experienced Instructors: Learn from working professionals - industry-relevant instructors.

Whether you’re aiming to upskill in your current role or you’re looking to make a career pivot, USF’s Certified Operational Excellence Practitioner training offers the credibility and expertise you need to succeed.


Ready to Start?

Don’t wait - this is your chance to advance your career with Operational Excellence certification from USF. Take control of your professional future and register now to start learning.

  • Enroll now: Begin your Operational Excellence journey today with our online course.
  • Register Today: Secure your spot in the program, and get started on a path that will help you achieve your career goals.


Contact Us

Still have questions? We’re here to help. Contact Brittany Woods, Program Advisor, at brittanywoods@usf.edu. We’re happy to walk you through the process and help you understand how this certification can benefit your career.

Frequently Asked Questions, Instructor Details, Tuition, Discounts, and Funding Source information can be found on the Course Registration Page.

Operational Excellence Badge

Quick Details

Format:
Instructor-Led Live Online

Cost:
$3,495

Duration:
12 weeks

Contact Hours:
Detailed breakdown provided upon enrollment
Credential(s) Earned:
â—¦ Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
â—¦ Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
â—¦ Operational Excellence Certification

CONNECT WITH A PROGRAM ADVISOR

Academic Advisor Brittany Woods
Brittany Woods
813-396-0435

Email