Lean Definition

Improvement

Improvement as a part of a successful Kaizen strategy “improvement” goes beyond the dictionary definition of the word. Improvement is a mindset of maintaining and improving standards. In a still broader sense, improvement can be defined as Kaizen and innovation, where a Kaizen strategy maintains and improves working standards through small, gradual improvements, and innovation calls for radical improvements as a result of large investment in technology, process and/or equipment. The Kaizen strategy clearly delineates responsibilities: Workers are to maintain standards and managers are to improve standards. The Japanese perception of management boils down to one precept: maintain and improve standards