What describes the Deming method for continuous improvement?

The Deming method for continuous improvement is best described by the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle. This cycle is a foundational principle of Deming's philosophy and emphasizes a systematic approach to problem-solving and process improvement.

The PDCA cycle consists of four stages:

1. Plan: Identify a problem or area for improvement, and develop a plan to address it.

2. Do: Implement the plan on a small scale to test its effectiveness.

3. Check: Evaluate the results of the implementation to determine if the plan met its objectives and identify any issues.

4. Act: Based on the evaluation, take action to standardize the successful elements of the plan or to develop a new plan if the initial one did not work.

This method fosters continuous improvement by promoting iterative learning and adaptation, making it an effective framework for organizations seeking to enhance their processes and quality continuously. By repeating the cycle, organizations can drive improvements over time, learning from each iteration.

In contrast, the other options focus on specific tools or methods that may support quality improvement but do not encapsulate the broader philosophy or systematic approach represented by the PDCA cycle. Cost of quality analysis, process maps, and tree diagrams