DESCRIPTION
 

The Kaizen Primer PPT is a facilitation‑ready training deck designed to introduce participants to the philosophy, practices, and tools of Kaizen. Built for consultants, trainers, and organizational leaders, this primer provides a structured storyline that blends foundational concepts with practical tools, enabling effective workshops and team learning sessions. Developed by Operational Excellence Consulting, it emphasizes credibility, practitioner insight, and ease of facilitation.

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Kaizen -- meaning "change for the better" -- is more than a method; it is a culture of continuous improvement. This primer equips facilitators to help organizations harness Kaizen for adaptability, efficiency, and sustainable growth.​​

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​LEARNING OBJECTIVES

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By the end of this primer, learners will be able to:

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1. Explain the fundamental concepts and philosophy of Kaizen.

2. Recognize the importance of Kaizen in modern organizations and across industries.

3. Differentiate Kaizen from Lean and Innovation, understanding how they integrate.

4. Apply the PDCA and SDCA cycles to balance improvement and maintenance.

5. Practice the Six Steps of Kaizen as a structured improvement process.

6. Identify common pitfalls and success factors in Kaizen implementation.

7. Engage in activities that foster ownership, involvement, and customer focus.

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​CONTENTS

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1. Kaizen Foundations

• Definition and Origins

• Philosophy and Importance

• The Kaizen Umbrella

• Traditional vs. Kaizen Thinking

 

2. Introduction to Kaizen

• Applications in Different Industries

• Benefits of Kaizen

• Kaizen vs. Lean

• Kaizen & Lean Integration

• Kaizen and Innovation

 

3. Process & Tools for Implementation

• Kaizen & Management (PDCA vs. SDCA)

• People & Pillars of Kaizen

• PDCA Cycle – The Engine of Kaizen

• PDCA + SDCA – Dual Role of Management

• Ownership and Culture

• Next Process is the Customer

• Speak with Data

• 10 Principles of Kaizen

• Methods to Increase Productivity

• Six Steps of Kaizen

 

4. Activities & Application

• Activity 1: Kaizen Attitude

• Activity 2: Applying the Kaizen Process

 

5. Pitfalls & Success Factors

• Common Pitfalls in Kaizen Management

• Key Success Factors

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About the OEC Primer Series
 

Developed by Operational Excellence Consulting, each Primer is designed to be facilitation‑ready, practical, and credible. Unlike generic training materials, our Primer Series is built by practitioners with decades of transformation experience, ensuring every deck combines clear frameworks, proven tools, and interactive activities. This consistency across topics (5S, Kaizen, Lean, Problem Solving, Design Thinking, and more) makes the series a trusted resource for consultants, trainers, and organizations seeking structured, high‑impact learning.

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You may also be interested in the following training presentations (sold separately):

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1. Kaizen Primer

2. Kaizen

3. Six Steps of Kaizen

4. Kaizen Event Guide

5. 5S Workplace Organization

6. 5S for the Office

7. 5S Implementation Guidebook