Originally Published 9.21.2016

MAKATI CITY, Philippines - Erwin Ordonez, now the Project Manager – Business Process Excellence at TELUS International Philippines, earned his Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification last November 13, 2015.

Don’t quit! Persistence, determination, and patience are the major characteristics of Lean Six Sigma practitioners. – Erwin Ordonez, Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

In a recent interview, Erwin talks about his experience with his Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. Erwin tells the story behind his certification and even gives some tips for those who are currently pursuing their Green Belt Certification.

To be certified in Lean Six Sigma, one has to complete an actual Lean Six Sigma project and apply process improvement tools, methodology, and techniques learned in class. "That's one reason why companies give high value to Certified Lean Six Sigma individuals. One does not just attend a program and receive his certification but has to successfully apply and show proper use of tools and methodology with actual work processes. One has to earn his Lean Six Sigma certification," Tuozo said. "If you attend our Lean Six Sigma programs, unlike other training providers, you get continuous support after the program, for no additional cost. You'll be assigned a Black Belt to help you complete your project," Tuozo added.

"That's one reason why companies give high value to Certified Lean Six Sigma individuals. One does not just attend a program and receive his certification but has to successfully apply and show proper use of tools and methodology with actual work processes. One has to earn his Lean Six Sigma certification," - Rex Tuozo, Master Black Belt, “The Six Sigma Guy”

Previously from Jollibee Worldwide Services- Logistics, Erwin mentioned that he felt both excitement and fear as he started and executed his Lean Six Sigma project. He also mentioned how not only in the project was he able to apply what he learned, but also how he views processes, business, and customers – he was “enlightened by the experience”, he mentioned.

My Lean Six Sigma training was an enlightening experience as it will change how you view your process, business, and customers. And Sir Rex, as a mentor, makes Lean Six Sigma very easy and practical to learn. -Erwin

Erwin’s project is aimed at reducing the turnaround time of trucks in the warehouse from an average of 6.5 hours to 2.8 hours. After achieving this processing time, overtime hours of employees lessened, operational efficiency increased, and the acquirement of raw materials became faster, which prevented stockouts and loss of sales. In the later parts of the interview, he left us with four tips that he wanted to share with those who are currently conducting their project:

• Don’t be afraid to ask Sir Rex, or your mentor if you need help on your project;

• Not all Lean Six Sigma tools can be used on your project, use the tools you will only need;

• You can’t do a Lean Six Sigma project alone no matter how good you are, People skills come first than technical skills;

• And most importantly, Don’t QUIT! Persistence, determination, and patience are the major characteristics of Lean Six Sigma practitioners.

For those who haven’t taken the Green Belt program yet, I highly recommend you take it. It’s a huge investment for your personal career and market value and you will be able to learn and apply the Lean Six Sigma tools and methodology in your work or business whatever the industry. - Erwin

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