How to apply a PDCA cycle correctly

The plan-do-check-act is an iterative four-step cycle that often each phase is overlooked.

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The PDCA (plan-do-check-act) is an iterative four-step cycle used primarily as a scheme of quality improvement process and well known by quality managers, but often the steps for each phase is overlooked. Gorenflo et al [1] define what needs our attention step by step, and I summarize these below:

Before beginning the PDCA process

Before beginning the PDCA process, it is important:

• Assemble the team that will participate.
• Develop a communications plan.

PLAN phase

1. Identify and prioritize quality improvement opportunities.
2. Develop an AIM statement.
3. Describe the current process.
4. Collect data on the current process.
5. Identify all possible causes of the problem and determine the root cause. (You can use the Ishikawa diagram to identify these factors)
6. Identify potential improvements.
7. Develop an improvement theory.
8. Develop an action plan.

DO phase