Handbook of Management Scales/Continuous improvement

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Continuous improvement (composite reliability = 0.79)[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

The authors identify improvement and innovation as two critical plant level capabilities. These capabilities are each conceptualized as a second-order factor and measured through a distinct bundle of routines. The following routines underlying improvement capabilities are identified: continuous improvement, process management, and leadership involvement in quality. The routines closely related to improvement capability are: search for new technologies, cross-functional product design, and processes and equipment development. The items to measure each routine were selected based on a review of the relevant literature. Items were included that have been used in prior studies. A panel of five academic researchers and managers with expertise in manufacturing operations reviewed each of the items.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Continuous improvement refers to sustained incremental improvements of existing products/processes.

Items[edit | edit source]

  • We strive to continually improve all aspects of products and processes, rather than taking a static approach.
  • We search for continued learning and improvement, after the installation of new equipment.
  • Continuous improvement makes our performance a moving target, which is difficult for competitors to attack.
  • We believe that improvement of a process is never complete; there is always room for more incremental improvement.
  • Our organization is not a static entity, but engages in dynamically changing itself to better serve its customers.

Source[edit | edit source]

Comments[edit | edit source]

Given that a 7-point Likert scale was used ("4" indicating "neutral"), the mean value (5.49) is quite high. Therefore, the wording might be changed (e.g., "We always believe" rather than "We believe").