Diagram of the five steps of LEAN

LEAN is an organized approach to running an organization or program focused on continuous improvement to eliminate 'waste' in operations and provide greater value to the customer. Efficiency and quality are improved and maintained by defining standard work, monitoring key metrics, and making small, incremental adjustments continually over time.

The NH Bureau of Education and Training offers several levels, or belts, as part of its LEAN training program.

White Belt

An introduction to the LEAN philosophy, key practices, and benefits of applying LEAN within an organization. Free online program available for State of NH employees.

Yellow Belt

Reinforces key concepts of LEAN and provides hands-on introduction to the methodology of Lean process improvement. Participants apply LEAN techniques to define and evaluate an actual work process and construct an implementation plan to enact selected improvements. Typically requires 3-4 in-person class days to complete.

Green Belt

Teaches students how to guide a group through the application of LEAN practices and lead a process improvement exercise. Provides instruction on facilitation and other techniques to guide operational change and successfully execute an implementation plan. Each cohort works together for several hours per week over a 6-8 week period to complete this training.

Black Belt

The highest level of LEAN certification offered by NH BET. This multi-class program prepares students to lead an organization through a LEAN transformation by understanding how to establish the core practices of LEAN culture and apply LEAN from both an operational and strategic viewpoint considering each of four key areas (people, process, system alignment, and results).

LEAN for Leaders

A workshop for public leaders on the benefits of LEAN and the opportunity for them to spearhead individual improvement efforts and the adoption of LEAN management practices as part of a LEAN transformation at the organization level.