How to Create a Sustainable Continuous Improvement Program

A Continuous Improvement Program is most effective when executed in three distinct phases.

First, Organizing Key Processes gets people involved and accustomed to critical activities. Next, Maturing the Process includes automating the flow of information and refining downtime tracking, providing maximum value to the leadership team. Finally, Sustaining Long-Term Improvements ensures that each process is working as planned, and that any issues have been resolved. During this phase, we must check the interdependencies between people, processes, and technologies, and address any resource gaps that may block progress.