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| Criterion |  Operations PDCA Cycle |  Operations Gemba Walk |  Operations 5 Whys |  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. | 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. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | 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 | Low | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 30-120 min | 15-30 min | 0.5-5 Tage |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 2-6 | 2-6 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Observation Notes, Improvement Ideas | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update |
Tags1 shared | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | LeanObservationProcessOperations | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | LeanContinuous improvementOperations |