How long does it take to implement a six sigma program in a typical organization?

For the organization to be following the six sigma methodology, a critical mass must be present. Critical mass is when enough personnel have been trained to carry out the methodology of six sigma in the organization. The initial steps are to select key individuals for black belt training and then progressively train more employees until there are enough trained individuals to attack problems throughout the organization. Some organizations have not recuperated their costs within two to three years. On the other hand, some have claimed that the payoff of implementation came in less than a year.