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| Criterion |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Operations DMAIC |  Delivery Value Stream Mapping |  Operations Kaizen Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | For a process problem with fluctuating performance, the method brings analysis and improvement into a disciplined sequence. It creates a framework in which numbers, causes, and control come together. | When delivery work dissolves into wait times, handoffs, and hidden effort, Value Stream Mapping makes the actual flow visible. The method exposes bottlenecks, idle time, and feedback loops so lead time and improvement levers become tangible. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Medium | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 2-12 Wochen | 1-3 h | 0.5-5 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-10 | 4-10 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Project Charter, Measurement Plan, Cause Analysis, Control Plan | Current-state map, Future-state map, Bottleneck list | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | Continuous improvementQualityProcess improvement | LeanFlowWasteDelivery | LeanContinuous improvementOperations |