Kaizen
Reference model
Kaizen focuses on continuous improvement and employee involvement.
About this model
A Japanese philosophy that emphasizes continuous improvement in processes, products, and services through small, incremental changes.
Originator not stated.
How to read it
- Look for areas of waste in the process.
- Identify small changes that can lead to improvements.
What this does
Facilitates continuous improvement by identifying and eliminating waste in processes through incremental changes.
When to use it
Use it when a team seeks to improve processes systematically and continuously, focusing on small, manageable changes.
Not when: Do not use it when immediate, large-scale changes are needed, or when the process is too complex for small adjustments.
What happens next
Consider using a value stream mapping tool to visualize the current state and identify improvement areas.
Golden thread
Builds on ←
- Current process analysis
- Stakeholder feedback
Feeds into →
- Implementation plan
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Drafted with AI and reviewed by Eccellere on 04/11/2026. Guidance, not advice: apply your own judgement.