Define continuous improvement – 8 experts’ definitions

Even though we created Vetter to be a software solution that is ideal for continuous improvement, we don’t have enough expertise to provide a definition on the subject (at least not yet). Continuous improvement is one of those enigmatic topics that seems to be at the forefront of everyone’s thinking yet refuses to be nailed down. Much thought has been given to continuous improvement by people much smarter and more experienced than we are. As such, we’ll refer you to eight C.I. definitions from experts that have been in the field much longer than we have.

1. “Continuous Improvement is the seeking of small improvements in processes and products, with the objective of increasing quality and reducing waste.” Source

2. “What is continuous improvement? Continuous Improvement is an ongoing cycle of positive change and employee involvement. “ Source

3. “Continuous Improvement, often known as Kaizen , is essentially a small step-by-step incremental improvement strategy. It is based upon a belief that continual improvement can be brought about by a never-ending series of small changes. Even in the face of enormous innovative improvement strategies, there will always be the need and opportunity to supplement such strategies and initiatives with continual small step changes.” Source


4. “A structured measurement driven process that continually reviews and improves performance“ Source

5. “Continuous Improvement (CI) is an ongoing effort to make incremental improvements to products, services or processes over time. Processes are constantly audited and modified based on their sustainability, efficiency and effectiveness.” Source


6. “Continuous improvement is a long-term business strategy to improve your business in terms of customer value and satisfaction, quality, speed to market, flexibility and reduced cost.“ Source

7. “A continuous improvement process (CIP or CI) is an ongoing effort to improve products, services, or processes. …. processes are constantly evaluated and improved in the light of their efficiency, effectiveness and flexibility”. Source

8. “It is defined as an ongoing effort to improve products, services, or processes. These efforts can seek "incremental" improvement over time or "breakthrough" improvement all at once. Delivery (customer valued) processes are constantly evaluated and improved in the light of their efficiency, effectiveness and flexibility.“ Source

Conclusion
As you can see, each quote was taken from a larger source and it wouldn’t hurt to visit each site in turn to investigate the knowledge and wisdom a bit further. By understanding the field of continuous improvement for yourself – not just relying on what others have to say – you’ll be better equipped to make necessary changes for yourself and add your own unique insight to this all-important aspect of every business’ operation.

2022 Update
Check out Vetter's impressive continuous improvement business Case Study which shows how piping company Georg Fischer Central Plastics saved $300,000 in just two years using Vetter.