Professional

First, identify the problem. You may find it useful to use Drill Down , Cause and Effect Diagrams. Once this is done, it may be appropriate to map the process, as it is at the root of the problem . Next, add any other information that will help to start sketching out solutions.

This phase involves several activities: Generate possible solutions. Select the best of these solutions, perhaps using techniques like Impact Analysis to scrutinize. Implement a pilot project on a small scale basis, with a small group, or in a limited geographical area, or using some other trial design appropriate to the nature of the problem, product or initiative..

Now we implement our solution fully. However, note that using the PDCA Cycle doesn't necessarily stop there. If we are using the PDCA or Deming Wheel as part of a continuous improvement initiative, we need to loop back to the Plan Phase (Step 1), and seek out further areas for improvement.

In this phase, we measure how effective the pilot solution has been, and gather any lessons learned that could make it even better. We may also decide to repeat the "Do" and "Check" phases, incorporating additional improvements. Once we are finally satisfied that the costs would outweigh the benefits of repeating the Do - Check sub-cycles, we can move on to the final phase.