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The 7 Steps to Scaling Continuous Improvement

Written by Leon Hardwick | Mar 4, 2025 1:43:07 PM

Scaling Continuous Improvement (CI) requires a structured and strategic approach to ensure sustainable impact across an organisation. Here are the seven key steps:

1. Establish a Clear Vision & Leadership Commitment

🔹 Define what CI success looks like at scale.
🔹 Secure executive sponsorship and ensure leadership actively champions CI.
🔹 Align CI with strategic business goals.


2. Build a Strong CI Foundation

🔹 Standardise a core CI methodology (Lean, Six Sigma, Agile, etc.).
🔹 Develop governance structures and a clear operating model.
🔹 Foster a culture that values continuous learning and problem-solving.

3. Develop & Align People Capabilities

🔹 Create role-specific CI training pathways for all levels.
🔹 Empower leaders with coaching skills to sustain CI momentum.
🔹 Recognise and reward CI contributions to drive engagement.

4. Implement a Scalable CI Framework


🔹 Define a roadmap for scaling CI across teams and functions.
🔹 Establish repeatable processes and best practices for deployment.
🔹 Ensure flexibility to adapt CI approaches to different business areas.

5. Leverage Technology & Data


🔹 Utilise digital tools to standardise and accelerate CI efforts.
🔹 Implement real-time performance tracking and reporting.
🔹 Use AI and automation to enhance problem-solving and decision-making.

6. Leverage Technology to Enable CI at Scale


🔹 Utilise digital tools to standardise and accelerate CI efforts.
🔹 Implement real-time performance tracking and reporting.
🔹 Use AI and automation to enhance problem-solving and decision-making.

7. Accreditation for CI Programmes: Gaining Recognition


🔹 Validate CI programmes with industry-recognised accreditation.
🔹 Provide employees with structured pathways to professional certification.
🔹 Use accreditation as a benchmark for quality and credibility in CI initiatives.

7. Sustain & Evolve CI for Long-Term Impact

🔹 Continuously assess and refine the CI approach.
🔹 Foster a network of CI champions to drive grassroots improvement.
🔹 Align CI with evolving business strategies and market conditions.

 

Struggling to take your CI initiatives enterprise-wide? OpX provides the framework, tools, and learning to embed sustainable improvement across your organisation. Get in touch to discuss how we can help you.