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Professional Certificate in Continuous Improvement Management and Tools
The Professional Certificate in Continuous Improvement Management and Tools is a comprehensive program that blends the principles of Agile and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to drive enhanced business outcomes. While each approach independently contributes to process improvement, their integration elevates team collaboration, strengthens management support, accelerates project delivery, and improves performance, quality, and customer satisfaction.
To enhance business optimisation, General Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is infused into Lean Six Sigma and Agile methodologies, which can help organizations streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and automate routine tasks, leading to better efficiency, faster results, and a more adaptive approach to continuous improvement.
Upon completion, learners are equipped to lead Lean and Agile transformations with GAI integration that is designed to deliver faster, more efficient, and customer-centric solutions. Learner will also be able to apply continuous improvement strategies to improve products, services and/or processes across the organisation.
Key Benefits
By the end of the program, participants will be able to:
- Understand and apply Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) technology to enhance business outcomes with Lean Six Sigma and Agile methodologies.
- Develop a foundational understanding of Lean Six Sigma, its core concepts, tools, and its application in process improvement.
- Use the DMAIC model (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) to improve productivity through case examples and problem resolution.
- Utilize Lean Six Sigma tools and data analysis techniques to identify root causes and develop sustainable solutions.
- Understand and apply business agility principles, adapting to VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) environments.
- Implement Agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban to lead teams and manage real-world projects.
- Solve problems creatively using Lean Systems Thinking, Lean Startup, and Design Thinking approaches.
- Collaborate effectively in teams, enhance communication, manage complexity and change, and develop strategic action plans aligned with organizational goals.
Programme Structure
 | Day 1: Leveraging Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (GPT) to improve business productivity | |
| Module | Objective | |
| Foundation of Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) | Gain a foundational understanding of Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) technology through a mini lecture. | |
| Application of GPT | Explore how GPT technology can enhance business outcomes through Lean Six Sigma and Agile methodologies via a facilitator-led, interactive discussion and hands-on activities using case studies and group presentations. | |
 | Day 2: Establish Lean Six Sigma Methodology | |
| Introduction to Lean Six Sigma | Gain an introductory understanding of Lean Six Sigma principles through a mini lecture. | |
| Define Phase | Introduce the Project Charter through the Kolb Experiential Learning Methodology, using a transactional process simulation role play to guide learners in applying Lean Six Sigma tools. Participants will develop a project charter for the simulation, conduct a Voice of Customer (VOC) exercise and translate it into Critical to Quality (CTQ) elements. They will also perform process mapping for the simulation, gaining hands-on experience in key Lean Six Sigma methodologies and learning how to apply these tools to real-world scenarios. | |
| Day 3: Establish Lean Six Sigma Methodology | |
| Measure Phase | Introduce the Measure phase through a mini lecture, followed by developing a data collection plan and performing process capability analysis for the simulation. Participants will learn how to use time as a key measure and apply the concepts of process capability analysis to assess and improve process performance. The session will also focus on translating these lessons into real-world situations, ensuring practical application of the techniques learned. | |
| Analyse Phase | Gain an introduction to the Analyse phase through a mini lecture, followed by conducting process analysis based on the simulation. Learners will understand how to apply these concepts to real-world situations. | |
| Day 4: Establish Lean Six Sigma Methodology | |
| Analyse Phase | In this course, participants will learn to conduct graphical data analysis using tools like Pareto charts, histograms, run charts, and box plots. Through a simulation, they will analyse data, identify trends, and understand how to apply these techniques in real-world situations. Additionally, participants will gain practical experience in root cause analysis, focusing on identifying underlying issues and solving problems effectively. The course emphasises applying these methods to real-life scenarios, enabling learners to make data-driven decisions and drive process improvements in their organisations. | |
| Improve Phase | This course introduces the Improve phase through a mini-lecture and focuses on applying Lean thinking to achieve continuous flow. Participants will explore key concepts such as batch size and quick change-over, learning how to apply Lean tools to develop solutions for a simulation. Emphasis will be placed on applying these lessons to real-world situations, enabling participants to enhance process efficiency and implement effective solutions. | |
| Day 5: Establish Lean Six Sigma Methodology | |
| Improve Phase | Learn to apply key Lean tools such as 5S, visual control, mistake proofing, and standardised work to develop solutions for the simulation. Learners will establish solutions by determining the best fit, piloting, and implementing the solution while gaining insights into how to apply these concepts to real-world situations. Additionally, learners will explore Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) to evaluate potential risks, select the best solution, and implement it effectively, reinforcing the application of lessons to practical scenarios. | |
| Control Phase | Introduce the Control phase through a mini lecture, focusing on building a control and response plan. Learners will create a visual board and simulate a team huddle for the simulation, followed by a closing summary of Lean Six Sigma concepts. The session will provide an overview of the key principles and tools of Lean Six Sigma, reinforcing how to apply them in real-world scenarios. | |
| Assessment | Summative Assessment | |
 | Day 6: Agile Mastery Unleashed: A Transformative 3-day Journey in Business Agility | |
| Foundations of Business Agility | Understand the landscape of business agility through an interactive ice-breaking session, which introduces the goals and structure of the workshop. Explore the need for agility in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) world, discussing the drivers of these challenges in modern business environments. Engage in a facilitator-led, interactive discussion on the core values and principles of business agility, supported by tactile activities such as case studies and group presentations, to deepen understanding and application of agile practices. | |
| Building the Agile Framework | Build the Agile framework by discussing the composition of effective agile teams and the importance of empowering them with autonomy. Explore techniques for driving customer value through continuous learning, shifting the focus from outputs to outcomes, and creating customer delight. Participate in a workshop focused on crafting a compelling vision and aligning team efforts toward a shared goal, fostering a cohesive and purpose-driven approach to agility. | |
| Day 7: Agile Mastery Unleashed: A Transformative 3-day Journey in Business Agility | |
| Cultivating an Agile Mindset | Cultivate an Agile mindset by developing a growth mindset through a hands-on Lego Serious Play session, allowing participants to model and understand the difference between growth and fixed mindsets. Navigate complexity by exploring complex adaptive systems and their relevance to business agility. Learn to identify and overcome personal and organisational blind spots and cognitive biases using tools and techniques. This will be supported by a facilitator-led, interactive discussion and tactile activities, including case studies and group presentations, to enhance understanding and application. | |
| Behavioural Dynamics in Agility | Learn to foster a culture of inquiry and insight through high-performance questioning, using powerful questions to stimulate critical thinking and reflection. Explore techniques for visualising value and eliminating waste within organisational processes, making value tangible and visible. Engage in an interactive exercise on polarity management, focusing on managing paradoxes and optimising outcomes through 'both/and' thinking. This will be supported by a facilitator-led, interactive discussion and tactile activities, including case studies and group presentations, to deepen understanding and application. | |
| Day 8: Agile Mastery Unleashed: A Transformative 3-day Journey in Business Agility | |
| Agile Frameworks and Tools | Explore Lean Thinking and Systems Dynamics to simplify processes and focus on value creation through systems thinking. Learn the basics of Lean Startup and Design Thinking by applying rapid prototyping and iterative design to business processes. Engage in a practical session on Kanban and continuous improvement and participate in an Agile project briefing. Teams will be formed and roles assigned for a real-time project where they will plan, build, test, and iterate a toy motor car to burst a balloon. Following the project, a debrief will be held to analyse outcomes, discuss agile practices, and gather feedback for improvements. Learners will then create personal and organisational action plans for applying their new knowledge to their work and challenges. The workshop will conclude with closing remarks and networking opportunities for further collaboration. | |
Who Should Attend
This course is suitable for:
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Schedule & Venue
Venue: NTU ONEC or Zoom
Duration: 8 days: (60 hours: 57.5 hours of classroom facilitated training + 2.5 hours of assessment)
| Course | Course Date |
|---|---|
| Professional Certificate in Continuous Improvement Management and Tools | Check here for upcoming course date |
Note: NTU reserves the right to change the date, venue, and mode of delivery due to unforeseen circumstances.
Certification
 | In addition, participants will be awarded a Business Agility Foundations Certification by ICAgile. Lastly, participants can also apply for the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification*. The certification will require learners to complete an online assessment and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt project. * Course fees and hours does not include Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification. |
Fees and Funding
| Fee and Funding | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course | Programme Fee (before GST) | Nett Fee Payable after Baseline Funding (including GST) | Nett Fee Payable after Mid-career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) (including GST) | Nett Fee Payable after Enhanced Training Support for Small & Medium Enterprises (ETSS) | Nett Fee Payable after Additional Funding Support (AFS) (including GST) |
| Professional Certificate in Continuous Improvement Management and Tools | S$7,200.00 | S$2,354.40 | S$914.40 | S$914.40 | S$848.00 |
Funding Requirements:
- You must achieve a minimum of 75% attendance for each course.
- You must complete and pass all assessment components.
Read more about funding here.
• NTU/NIE alumni may utilise their $1,600 Alumni Course Credits. Click here for more information.
Faculty and Industry Trainer
 | Dr Teoh Teik ToeNTU – School of Civil and Environmental Engineering Dr Teoh is a Academic Director and Senior Lecturer at Nanyang Business School (NBS), teaching Business Analytics and AI subjects. His other roles include:
Dr Teoh has published 4 books and more than 100 publications. Additionally, he has more than three decades of research experience in the areas of Big Data, Deep Learning, Cybersecurity, AI, Machine Learning and Software Development. He also possesses more than 25 years of teaching experience in AI, Data Science and Analytics, Statistics, Business, Finance, Accounting and Law. Dr Teoh obtained his PhD in Computer Engineering from NTU, Doctor of Business Administration and Master of Business Administration from University of Newcastle, Master of Law from the National University of Singapore, and Bachelor of Laws and Master of Laws from University of London. He completed his post doctorate at Singapore University of Technology and Design. Dr Teoh is a chartered holder of CFA, ACCA, CIMA, CA Singapore, Chartered Tax Practitioner, Associate Chartered Valuer and Appraiser and CPA Australia. Additionally, he is a member of Mensa International.
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 | Yoong Fook LoyFook Loy is founder and Managing Partner at the Centre for Performance Transformation since 2000, bringing over 25 years of expertise in consulting, training, and hands-on deployment in socio-technical systems for organizational design and development. His professional journey began with nearly 12 years at General Electric (GE), where he worked across various business units and held leadership roles in Operations, Human Resource Development, and Six Sigma. Since transitioning into Lean Six Sigma consulting in 2000, Fook Loy has established himself as a Certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. He provides consulting, coaching, and training services to a wide range of multinational organizations, including Air Products, Givaudan Asia Pacific, Bank Negara Indonesia, SHL Medical, Tokio Marine Asia, Continental Automotive, National Healthcare Group Singapore, New Balance, Far East Organization and others. Fook Loy holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and a Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education (DACE). He also earned a Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies. His professional certifications are extensive and include being a Certified Lean Launchpad Educator (University of California, Berkeley), Accredited Design Thinker, Master Trainer and Consultant for High Performance Work Organization, Certified Gallup Strength Finder Coach, accredited facilitator in the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, Belbin Team Roles and The Leadership Challenge. Fook Loy’s diverse expertise and leadership have made him a trusted partner in organizational transformation and a dynamic mentor in both professional and personal development.
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 | Daniel TheyaguMr Daniel Theyagu is a training consultant and performance evaluator since 1989. He has designed and delivered customised training for many organisations ranging from small and medium enterprises, multi-national corporations and the public sector. His participants have come from various countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Mauritius, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, China, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Brazil, Germany, Sweden, France, USA, United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Russia, Ukraine and Uzbekistan. Daniel is well known in his field as a highly humourous and innovative trainer who engages his participants actively and assist them in realising the returns of investment for the course they attend. His participants include, doctors, lawyers, judges, senior government official, military personnel, students and jobseekers. His area of specialty includes the following:
Daniel is the author of the following books:
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