CSSBB Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Exam Study Guide

CSSBB Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Exam Study Guide

168 Questions & Answers

90 Page PDF

The ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) certification is for professionals who can explain Six Sigma philosophies and principles, including supporting systems and tools. A Black Belt demonstrates team leadership, understands team dynamics, and knows how to assign team member roles and responsibilities. They have a thorough understanding of the entire Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) model in accordance with Six Sigma principles and have basic knowledge of lean enterprise concepts.

Exam Format:

• Number of Questions: 165 multiple-choice questions (150 scored and 15 unscored pretest questions) for computer-based testing. For paper-based testing, there are 150 scored questions.
• Duration: 4 hours and 18 minutes of exam time (total appointment time is 4.5 hours for CBT). For PBT, the exam duration is 4 hours.
• Delivery: Computer-based testing (CBT) through ASQ's testing partner, Prometric. Paper-based testing (PBT) may be available in certain locations.
• Open Book: The exam is open-book, meaning candidates can bring their own reference materials, which must be bound. Loose sheets and multiple-choice questions are not allowed.
• Passing Score: ASQ uses a scaled scoring system. The candidate needs to achieve a minimum score of 550 out of a possible 750 points.

Exam Content (Body of Knowledge): The CSSBB Body of Knowledge (BoK) is divided into nine main sections:

1. Organization-Wide Planning and Deployment (15 questions): Understanding Six Sigma, organizational goals, and drivers.
2. Organizational Process Management and Measures (20 questions): Impact on stakeholders, benchmarking, and business measures.
3. Team Management (18 questions): Team formation, facilitation, dynamics, and training.
4. Define (18 questions): Voice of the customer, project charter, and project management basics.
5. Measure (24 questions): Process characteristics, data collection, measurement systems, and basic statistics.
6. Analyze (24 questions): Measuring and modeling relationships between variables, hypothesis testing, and risk analysis.
7. Improve (17 questions): Design of experiments (DOE), Lean methods, and implementation.
8. Control (15 questions): Statistical process control (SPC) and other control methods.
9. Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Frameworks and Methodologies (14 questions): Common DFSS methodologies and robust design.

The number of questions per section is approximate and may vary.

Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

• Two completed projects with signed affidavits.
• One completed project with a signed affidavit and three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge.

Work experience must be in a full-time, paid role. Educational waivers are not granted for this exam. The projects must demonstrate the application of Six Sigma principles and tools and have resulted in significant, measurable improvements.

Benefits of CSSBB Certification:

• Industry Recognition: Gains global recognition as a highly competent Six Sigma Black Belt professional.
• Career Advancement: Enhances career opportunities in quality management, process improvement, and leadership roles.
• Increased Earning Potential: Certified professionals often command higher salaries.
• Leadership Skills: Develops and validates skills in leading and managing improvement teams.
• Problem-Solving Expertise: Demonstrates mastery of advanced statistical and problem-solving methodologies.
• Contribution to Organizational Success: Equips individuals with the skills to drive significant process improvements and contribute to the bottom line.

To prepare for the exam, ASQ offers resources such as the Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Handbook and a question bank. Many third-party providers also offer training courses. The exam is open-book, so familiarity with your reference materials and the BoK is crucial for success. You also need to ensure your project experience meets the ASQ requirements and that you can obtain the necessary signed affidavit(s).