Lean Specialized Credential

1. Lean Fundamentals and Principles (15%, 9 items)
   1. Understand the differences between value and nonvalue-added activities
   2. Identify the eight sources of waste
   3. Explain the importance of flow in a value stream
   4. Describe the use of push and pull production
   5. Understand the benefits of lean and how it is used to seek perfection
   6. Describe the importance of lean culture, including leadership and metrics
   7. Understand how Voice of the Customer defines value and influences key performance indicators in lean
2. Continuous Improvement and Problem Solving (35%, 21 items)
   1. Apply the PDCA method to problem solve and improve processes
   2. Understand DMAIC and how it is used to optimize business processes and designs
   3. Describe how kaizen (improvement) can be used for continuous improvement
   4. Understand when and how to use a kaizen event
   5. Use and explain the A3 method
   6. Understand the importance of gemba (the actual place) and how it is used to improve a process or solve a problem
3. System and Process Efficiency Methodologies and Tools (30%, 18 items)
   1. Describe how standard work reduces variation and increases efficiency
   2. Use value stream mapping to document current and future state process maps
   3. Calculate and analyze the takt time to set the rate of a system
   4. Explain the role of kanban (signboard) in process efficiency
   5. Apply just-in-time to reduce waste in a system
   6. Apply total productive maintenance to optimize a production process
   7. Implement overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) to ensure overall system efficiency and identify areas for improvement
   8. Utilize change-over reduction for continuous flow
   9. Describe the benefits of heijunka (production leveling)
   10. Use Theory of Constraints to identify and address bottlenecks
4. Workspace Optimization Methodologies and Tools (20%, 12 items)
   1. Apply the 5S discipline to improve a workspace
   2. Understand the importance and application of visual management
   3. Describe the use of andon (status-display station) in a workspace
   4. Describe the use of jidoka (autonomation)
   5. Understand how work cell design can improve process flow
   6. Understand and use poka-yoke (error-proofing)

Lean Specialized Credential

 
ASQ’s Lean Specialized Credential E-Learning provides a comprehensive, self-paced exploration of the core principles, tools, and practices essential to driving operational excellence and eliminating waste within an organization. Through engaging online lessons, interactive activities, real-world case studies, and frequent knowledge checks, you will develop a strong foundation in: 

• Lean Fundamentals and Principles 
• Value Stream Mapping and Flow Optimization
• Waste Identification and Elimination
• Continuous Improvement and Kaizen Practices 

Throughout the course, you will practice applying key Lean concepts to real-world scenarios, strengthening your ability to identify inefficiencies, improve processes, and deliver greater value to customers.  This course was developed using generative AI technology to support content creation and was carefully reviewed and revised by qualified subject matter experts. 

In addition, you will have the opportunity to take a practice test at the end of the e-learning to assess your knowledge and prepare for the online Lean Specialized Credential Exam. 

Once you have completed the e-learning, you can move on to take the Lean Specialized Credential Exam. The online exam is open book and comprised of sixty (60) multiple-choice questions. You must achieve a score of 80% or higher to achieve the Lean Specialized Credential. After passing the exam, you will receive a verifiable digital certificate and badge from our issuing partner Accredible.   

Lean Specialized Credential E-Learning

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites for the Lean Specialized Credential E-Learning; however, fundamental lean knowledge is recommended. For basic lean knowledge, view ASQ's Lean Essentials web-based offering.

Who Should Attend:

This course is designed for professionals seeking to earn the Lean Specialized Credential or to strengthen their knowledge and practical application of Lean principles, tools, and continuous improvement practices. 

Note:

Taking this course does not constitute, nor imply, the successful passing of the ASQ Lean Specialized Credential examination.

Format

Web-based, self-paced training modules that may involve combinations of text, visuals, audio, practical case studies, interactive simulations, and knowledge checks (see specific courses for features and tools). These web-based courses require an internet-connected device.

Product Access

Access expires after 365 days

E-Learning Technical Requirements

Hardware

• PC, Mac, ASQ Learning app, or mobile device running iOS or Android
• Audio speakers or headset
• High-speed internet connection

Browsers for ASQ Courses

You can view courses on any device that supports these browsers. This includes mobile devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Android-enabled phones and tablets.

• Windows: Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge (latest version), Google Chrome (latest version), Firefox (latest version)
• Mac: Safari (latest version), Google Chrome (latest version), Firefox (latest version)
• Mobile: Safari in Apple iOS 10 or later, Google Chrome in Apple iOS 10 or later, Google Chrome in Android OS 4.4 or later

Required Browser Settings for Viewing Courses

• JavaScript must be enabled for published courses to work.
• Font downloads must be enabled to see the correct fonts and characters.
• When using Internet Explorer, turn off Compatibility View for sites where courses are hosted.
• Deactivate any pop-up blockers, spam filters, and company firewalls that could interfere with access to the e-learning.
• Third-party toolbars such as Bing, Yahoo, and Google should also be disabled due to their pop-up blocking capabilities.

Accessing Your E-Learning

After registration, you will receive an email with access instructions. If you do not, please check your email junk, spam, or clutter folders. If the email is not there, please contact ASQ.

Cancellation Policy

We will refund you in full if you cancel your course within 30 calendar days of purchase and if no more than one module (also called “topic”), or online Knowledge Check in the course has been accessed. If more than one module or online Knowledge Check in the course is accessed, or if a PDF within the course is accessed, or the Specialized Credential Exam has been accessed, no refund will be provided even within 30 calendar days of purchase.

Note for corporate clients: Please contact your regular Channel Manager to confirm your contractual terms.