View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Decision Making Decision Rights Mapping |  Operations Kaizen Event |  Operations Gemba Walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For an improvement that still has to prove itself in everyday work, the method runs it through small learning loops. It connects planning, checking, and standardization into a repeatable learning mode. | In organizations with many stakeholders, it often blurs who actually decides and who is merely consulted. It separates options, evaluation criteria, and open risks. The result is captured as a Decision Rights matrix and an agreement. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. | When there is uncertainty about the real course of a process, the method brings observation to the place where work happens. It combines perception, follow-up questions, and process knowledge so decisions rest on actual workflows instead of assumptions. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 90-180 min | 0.5-5 Tage | 30-120 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 4-12 | 4-10 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Decision Rights Matrix, Agreement | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | DecisionGovernanceAlignmentResponsibility | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | LeanObservationProcessOperations |