What concept emphasizes the continuous improvement of processes and systems?

Kaizen is a Japanese term that translates to "continuous improvement" and embodies the philosophy of constantly seeking ways to enhance processes, systems, and work environments. It focuses on incremental improvements in efficiency, effectiveness, and quality across all areas of an organization. In a Six Sigma context, Kaizen plays a crucial role as teams adopt this mindset to eliminate waste, reduce variation, and foster a culture of collaboration and proactive problem-solving among all employees.

This continuous improvement ethos is vital in driving organizational excellence and sustainability, as it encourages everyone within an organization to regularly identify opportunities for enhancement and to implement changes that add value. By focusing on small, consistent enhancements over time, Kaizen cultivates an environment that supports long-term growth and operational success.