Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Practice Exam

Which option best describes an effective goal statement?

1. Our products contain 10 defects on average

2. We experience a 20% drop in sales due to defects in our products

3. We will increase customer satisfaction by reducing product defects by 10%

4. Company shipments are often delayed by 3 days due to a poor packing process

The correct answer is: We will increase customer satisfaction by reducing product defects by 10%

The choice that describes an effective goal statement is one that is clear, specific, and focused on outcomes that are actionable and measurable. In this case, the statement about increasing customer satisfaction by reducing product defects by 10% meets these criteria effectively. This goal clearly identifies the desired outcome—improved customer satisfaction—and provides a specific target that can be quantitatively measured (a 10% reduction in product defects). It focuses on improvements that are beneficial to the customer, which aligns with the principles of Six Sigma that prioritize customer needs and quality enhancement. The other options may identify issues or problems but lack the specificity or positive focus of a goal. For example, while discussing the average number of defects or the percentage drop in sales highlights issues, they do not present a clear, forward-looking goal aimed at improvement. Similarly, mentioning delays in shipments indicates a problem without providing a pathway or target for resolution. Thus, they do not serve as effective goal statements in the context of a Six Sigma initiative.