One of the weak links in quality is sustaining good quality. It is easy to assume that once a quality system is implemented, it will operate at the desired and expected quality for an extended period. However, this is hardly realistic. A quality improvement project needs to be continuously monitored and tweaked to produce and maintain the desired level of quality. One way to achieve this is a continuous improvement model. Therefore, this paper seeks to discuss some of the ways to optimize the tools and techniques used to improve and maintain good quality in projects. Some tools for a continuous improvement model include:
Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control (DMAIC)
Plan, Do, Check, and Act (PDCA)
Identify, Measure, Problem Analysis, Remedy, Operationalize, Validate, and Evaluate (IMPROVE)
There are special events known in the industry as the “Kaizen Event.” This is when the above-stated tools get utilized by employing an optimizing technique. This maintains and further improves the quality of a process.
The problem with continuous improvement process optimization begins when the DMAIC process is repeated continuously with the expectations of achieving the same level of success gained prior. This may lead to failure of the process. This paper discusses some implementation techniques of continuous improvement models to enhance the tools’ success rate since there is a false expectation that these tools will produce the same successful results.
The existing literature exemplifies what gap exists in the current research. Although much literature demonstrates the pivotal role optimization has concerning continuous improvement projects, there is a gap relating to how this optimization enables a smooth progression in continuous improvement projects. As a result, this study focuses on the gaps existing in related literation regarding optimization and continuous improvement projects. The study evaluates the elements and applicability of modern optimization tools as well as concepts in regard to continuous improvement projects. Thus, this study seeks to fill in the gaps in existing literature.