What does the term "Kaizen" primarily refer to in the context of operations management?

The term "Kaizen" primarily refers to continuous improvement through small and gradual changes. This concept is rooted in the idea that small, incremental changes can lead to significant improvements over time, fostering a culture of continuous enhancement in processes, products, and services. In operations management, Kaizen emphasizes employee involvement and collaboration in identifying and implementing these small changes, which can result in higher efficiency, better quality, and enhanced overall performance.

This approach is often contrasted with the idea of radical changes, which are typically not the focus of Kaizen. Instead of pursuing comprehensive transformations or major innovations at once, Kaizen promotes a steady, ongoing improvement mindset where even minor adjustments are valued and contribute to the overall success of the organization. It's also essential to note that while waste reduction is a goal within many Kaizen practices, the term itself is broader, focusing on overall improvement rather than just waste elimination.