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 |  Agile Start Stop Continue |  Operations Kaizen Event |  Agile 4Ls Retrospective |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 a team wants to deliberately adjust its working behavior, it makes habits visible and assessable. It focuses on concrete changes instead of diffuse mood. | 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 a sprint should not only be assessed but also learned from, it captures experience in clear learning categories. It records what worked, what's missing, and what should run differently next time. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 1 h bis mehrere Wochen | 30-60 min | 0.5-5 Tage | 45–75 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-8 | 3-12 | 4-10 | Team members involved |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | PDCA Log, Experiment Plan, Learning Outcome, Standard Change | Start Stop Continue Board, Improvement Actions | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | 4Ls Board, Learning Themes, Improvement Actions |
Tagsno overlap | Continuous improvementLeanExperiments | RetrospectiveImprovementTeamReflection | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | RetrospectiveLearningReflectionTeam |