Kaizen is one of the business philosophies that originated from Japan – and it’s a philosophy that focuses on the continuous and the comprehensive improvement or development of working procedures, efficiency, and so on.

In case you’re wondering, the word “Kaizen” is a Japanese term that means “change for the better.” Alternatively, it’s also regarded as the philosophy that relays “continuous improvement,” and it’s why it’s so popular. When you hear it, it might sound something familiar – perhaps, something you have encountered before. But what really is it? How would you Describe Kaizen? How Does it Fit Into Lean Six Sigma?

What is Kaizen?

Similar to the Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen is also discipline from the ever-famous Toyota Company in the 1980s; the company made the methodology famous and they saw Kaizen as how they’ll not run across the same problem again after they’ve solved it.

If we were to take it to form the word itself, Kaizen is a term coming from the two (2) “Kai” and “Zen.” Kai means change, while Zen means good – put them together and you get a term that talks about continuous and constant improvement.

Kaizen is a process control that is taken up from statistics and data that would improve a business’s every aspect. Their approach is on-point and straight on – they don’t wiggle or beat around the bush. Kaizen’s objective is similar to that of Lean Six Sigma – and that is to make sure that the quality or the caliber is as its best. If you want to know more about Kaizen and you want it to come from a company trusted by tens to hundreds of companies, work with us here at Maximum Potential – and we’ll be more than happy to help!

Small But Continuous Improvements

If we were to place Kaizen beside Lean Six Sigma, you’ll be confused because they almost have the same principle and philosophy – and that is to improve and develop the company or the business that they’re working for.

However, the difference is that the main goal or objective of Kaizen is to perform and pursue these changes slowly but surely. Unlike Lean Six Sigma, which tackles issues, no matter big or small, Kaizen’s perspective is that it needs to start small.

PDCA

Lean Six Sigma has DMAIC or the (D) – Define; (M) – Measure; (A) – Analyze; (I) – Improve; and (C) – Control, while Kaizen has PDCA or (P) – Plan; (D) – Do; (C) – Check; and (A) – Act. The entire goal of Kaizen is this – and it’s pretty straightforward.

Planning is the phase in which the objective needs to be cleared and defined, as well as giving the way or the solution how it’ll be achieved. Do, following plan is the phase of the plan implementation. This is also where changes and modifications need to be made should it be deemed necessary. Checking, is the phase in which the “DO” is going to be evaluated and to see if there are areas for improvement; and last but definitely not the least is the Act, which will be the final step and it’s going to be the adjustments based on the evaluation.

Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma

Lean Six Sigma and Kaizen are relatives – in fact, they share the same stems of ancestors. Kaizen is a very good fit for Lean Six Sigma because just like it, Kaizen’s goal is to improve and enhance the business; in fact, its goal is to develop all aspects of it, just slowly.

How We Help

At Maximum Potential, we will perform and pursue these in a way where you’ll definitely understand it and in a way where you’ll be able to apply or implement it to your work or your industry. Through the experience and the overall skill we have in business process improvement and development, we can be absolutely sure that you’ll be able to benefit from our services. Whether you need help in consulting or in training, we’re the best!

Don’t believe us? Well, here are some of the companies and the organizations we’ve helped:

• Procter & Gamble (P&G)
• Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F)
• The World Bank
• The United States (US) Air Force
• Anthem
• LBrands
• Graham Local Schools
• And Many More!

Should you be interested in seeing the full list of clients that we have worked with and that we’re working with right now, we’re just a call away. With the teachings and the training sessions we have for Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma, you’ll never look for anything else. Maximum Potential is the company that can unloose the potential and the hidden skill that your employees and your professionals have, to contribute to the overall welfare of the business. Call us now!  

Experience high-quality and continuous development and improvements for your business through the help and the assistance of our experts and professionals!