8. Models of Continuous Improvement

Over the years, diverse methodologies have been introduced to realize continuous improvement. Continuous improvement practices can be are applied to products, processes, or services. In this chapter, we learn how to define and distinguish between these continuous improvement methodologies. The most important model, such as total quality management (TQM), is well-defined. TQM is determined using the three words that make up the name: Total–Quality–Management. The Kaizen model introduces from Japanese factories and is usually translated into Kai = Change and Zen is for the better. Kaizen refers to any positive change. We will learn another model about the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) cycle, a simple process, but it is a very powerful tool for continuous improvement. The PDCA cycle has a fundamentally iterative nature, which is what makes it persistent. Six Sigma is a big topic and has a five-step improvement process called the DMAIC process. The Theory of constraints focuses on bottlenecks, which are anything that limits an organization from achieving its goal.