Plan-Do-Study-Act

Another problem-solving methodology popular with lean thinkers is the PDCA problem-solving loop. PDCA (plan-do-check-act) is an iterative four-step problem-solving process typically used in business process improvement. It is also known as the Demlng cycle, Shewhart cycle, Deming wheel, or Plan-Do-Study-Act. 

In addition to or in place of DO IT, organizations are encouraged to use their existing continuous improvement systems, such as Dem-ing s Plan, Do, Study, Act—PDSA, to improve their behavioral safety process (Deming, 1986). This helps to integrate the behavioral safety process into the management system and culture. Two important related points to keep in mind ... 

PDCA (plan—do—check—act or plan—do—check—adjust) is an iterative four-step management method used in business for the control and continuous improvement of processes and products. It is also known as the Demingcirck/cycle/wheel, Shewhart cycle, control circle/cycle, or plan—do—study—act. 

Deming explained that the process for improving a system is the cycle of plan-do-study-act depicted in Figure 3.1. He CTedits this formula for process improvement to his mentor, Walter Shewhart, and calls it the Shewhart cycle. Others have called it the Deming cycle or the PDSA cycle. 

Improvement plans should be developed using the Shewhart cycle of plan-do-study-act. 

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