What is a key characteristic of a Kaizen Event?

A key characteristic of a Kaizen Event is that it is designed to produce rapid results. Kaizen, a term meaning "continuous improvement," focuses on enhancing processes, reducing waste, and improving efficiency through small, incremental changes. In a Kaizen Event, teams come together for a short, focused period to analyze a specific process, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes immediately. This rapid execution distinguishes Kaizen from longer-term projects or initiatives.

While there are other notable aspects of Kaizen Events, such as their focus on specific areas rather than the entire value stream simultaneously, or their origins, the emphasis on quick action and immediate results is what defines them in practice. The structure of a Kaizen Event typically spans from a few days to a week, allowing for intensive collaboration and quick implementation of solutions, which is essential to maintain momentum and engagement from participants.