Continuous Improvement (CI), also referred to as the Continuous Improvement Process (CIP), is essential to many management strategies, including Lean Management and Total Quality Management (TQM). CI adopts a bottom-up approach, engaging all employees to enhance the efficiency of organizational processes. Despite its benefits, CI faces challenges related to corporate culture and methodology.
The CIP tool developed at Fraunhofer IPK combines all processes in a single tool – lean, digital, integrated. [German only]
Defining the process creates clear responsibilities at all levels. The CIP then handles improvements, from identifying inputs and planning all the way to transferring knowledge to other areas. Integrating feedback from existing best practices into the planning of new initiatives is a crucial component of the process. Identifying the various inputs and bringing them together in a single process enables improvements to be directed towards the company's success.
Initially, we conduct a maturity assessment to pinpoint areas requiring long-term improvement. Utilizing the insights gained and industry best practices, we define the target process following the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle. This includes identifying essential inputs relevant to your company's continuous improvement process. We leverage these inputs for quick-win projects by fostering transparency through preliminary analyses. For more in-depth analyses, technical systems are often necessary. We offer assistance by specifying requirements and creating prototypes for initial testing.
Employees receive support during the implementation of processes and methods through appropriate technical tools. Both methods and processes are tailored specifically to your company, ensuring that the solutions are optimally aligned with your individual management system.
Throughout the project, we train employees in these new processes and methods through hands-on experiences with initial prototypes or via direct coaching within improvement projects.
The approach encompasses the transition from rolling out a new management system to establishing continuous improvement, ensuring the long-term competitiveness of your company.
Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology