The starting point for improvement – whose intrinsic value is indisputable – is to
recognize the need, itself coming from the recognition of a problem. Therefore kaizenemphasizes problem-awareness and provides clues for identifying problems. Kaizen is
also a problem-solving process which follows immediately after the identification
phase, and any improvement must subsequently be standardized to reach the next
level of improvement (Imai, 1986). This balance between routinized continuous
improvements and suggestions for future improvements on a daily basis is at the heart
of the kaizen approach.