PDCAsirkelen

PDCAsirkelen refers to the PDCA cycle, a four-step iterative method used for managing and improving processes and products. By repeating the sequence—plan, do, check, act—it supports gradual, data-informed changes and learning within organizations.

Plan involves defining objectives, mapping processes, and devising actions and metrics. Do means implementing the plan on a small scale or pilot, often to test feasibility. Check entails monitoring results, comparing outcomes with predictions, and gathering insights. Act consists of implementing successful changes broadly, standardizing new practices, and planning the next cycle.

Origin and naming: The concept originated from Walter A. Shewhart and was popularized by W. Edwards Deming. In some contexts a variant called Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) is used, especially in healthcare, which emphasizes studying results alongside measuring them. The cycle is inherently iterative and circular, encouraging continuous refinement rather than one-time interventions.

Uses and relevance: PDCA is widely applied in quality management, manufacturing, software development, and service industries. It is commonly integrated with Lean, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001 frameworks to structure problem solving and process standardization. While flexible, successful use depends on clear objectives, reliable data, and sustained leadership support.

Limitations and considerations: If treated as a checkbox, the PDCA cycle loses effectiveness. Real benefits require active participation, rigorous measurement, and willingness to act on findings. The cycle can be time-consuming and may be slow to yield results if not embedded in a broader improvement culture.