Competencies and Behavior Model

Competencies and Behavior Model
Lean Certification

The hidden gem of certification.

Larry Anderson

Ever wonder what a lean leader looks like? How about a lean practitioner? As more candidates have applied for and achieved certification, the Lean Certification Oversight and Appeals committee has received questions from candidates, companies, recruiters, and others asking questions similar to, “Now that Michael has his certification, what should I look for and expect from him?” Pursuit of an answer led to the origins of certification and to a hidden gem.

Not really hidden, but you’ll have to look for it. On the SME lean certification web page (www.sme.org/leancert) is a gem chock full of information that describes lean practitioners. As part of the development of the certification criteria and process, the practitioners involved took on the substantial task of describing lean practitioners. The resulting resource document, “Competencies and Behavior Model,” is available to individuals seeking certification.

The model presents descriptions of skills and behaviors associated with each certification level (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) and the relationship to the lean body of knowledge. Combined with the exam and portfolio, the model provides candidates with a complete picture of lean success. The exam covers knowledge; the portfolio covers application; and the model provides the picture of how effective use of those can result in transformation.

If you find yourself asking, “What does a lean candidate look like?” do a little mining and reference the “Competencies and Behavior Model.” This gem won’t disappoint. For more information, check www.sme.org/leancert. The model can be found under the Supporting Pages area.

Preparing for Lean Certification: Classroom Review Program
One of the best ways to begin your lean certification journey is to attend a classroom review program. These programs provide practitioners knowledge needed to pass the certification exams. The sessions are interactive group discussions of the body of knowledge parameters associated with the Lean Bronze certification exam.

Recommended Reading List Update
Given the increase in candidates from the health services sector, the Lean Certification and Oversight Appeals committee approved Lean Hospitals by Mark Graban as an alternative to Lean Production Simplified by Pascal Dennis, for Lean Bronze Certification exam recommended reading. Graban explains in his book why and how to use lean for improving safety, quality, and efficiency in a health care setting. The book describes how lean manufacturing staples such as value stream mapping and process observation can help hospital personnel identify and eliminate waste in their processes. In turn, they prevent delays for patients, reduce wasted motion for caregivers, and improve the quality of care. Read more

My Certification Website
Go to SME’s My Certification website (www.sme.org) to upload your recertification credits, view exam scores, and upload portfolios. Once you sign into your account, you’ll see your certifications on your “My SME” page. If you don’t have a log-in or have forgotten your password, contact our SME customer service at 800-733-4763.

Larry Anderson is president of ResourceSyncing.