The continual improvement model

A structured seven-step loop applying to everything in the value system: products, services, practices, relationships, at every level.

1. What is the vision? Tie the improvement to organizational vision and strategy.
2. Where are we now? Baseline the current state: metrics, stakeholder stories, feedback.
3. Where do we want to be? Set the target state via SMART objectives, CSFs, KPIs.
4. How do we get there? Plan the route, design the initiatives or experiments.
5. Take action. Execute, agile style: experiment, iterate, pivot.
6. Are we getting there? Evaluate against the baseline and target.
7. How do we keep the momentum going? Embed the change into culture, plan the next loop.

SMART is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

A failed initiative isn’t wasted: analyze and document the lessons learned.

Continual improvement is also one of the five value system components, so expect it from both angles.