What is Kaizen?
It means good change or improvement.
Definition
Kaizen is a Japanese term that translates as "good change" or "improvement", and it's a business philosophy focused on continuous improvement.
Origins
Developed in post-war Japan, kaizen was influenced by American teachings on quality management and was notably implemented by Toyota.
Methodology
Kaizen involves all employees in the gradual and continuous improvement of various areas of a company, aiming to eliminate waste and improve processes.
Tools
The kaizen philosophy utilizes various tools like 5S for workplace organization, JIT and Kanban for inventory control, and value stream mapping for waste elimination.
Expansion
Management consultant Masaaki Imai introduced kaizen globally in 1986 through his book "Kaizen: The Key to Japan's Competitive Success".