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.