Solving Problems in the Workplace: PDCA

Definition of PDCA

PDCA, which stands for Plan Do Check Act, is a method for solving problems in the workplace. It is essentially the application of the scientific method to problem-solving within a company.

We speak of “conducting a PDCA” as follows:

• Plan (Plan). PDCA begins with a phase of analysing the root cause of the problem. The “5 Whys” technique can assist in this exercise. Once the root cause is identified, one seeks to formulate an experimental proposal aimed at permanently eliminating the problem from recurring in the future. What countermeasure can we implement?
• Do (Do). We implement this experimental proposal that is intended to permanently eliminate the problem.
• Check (Check). By observing the results of this experiment, one can draw one of two conclusions: either the problem has not reoccurred, confirming that the chosen countermeasure was effective, or the problem has reoccurred, indicating that further planning is necessary.
• Act (Act). From this observation, learning emerges that can be disseminated within the company. Acting involves sharing the lessons learned and generalising the new practices discovered that have successfully eliminated the problem. This might involve updating a standard, implementing an error-prevention mechanism (poka-yoke), etc.

PDCA Everywhere

Test-Driven Development and PDCA

PDCA applies to Test-Driven Development (TDD) on two levels.

1. TDD is a way of executing a series of PDCA cycles. Writing a test that fails – a specification – is the experimental proposal. Implementing a minimal amount of code to make this test pass is a means of verifying whether the test will indeed succeed. The execution of the tests constitutes the experiment itself, allowing us to conclude whether the proposed implementation is correct.
2. Deciding to use TDD within a software development team can itself be a countermeasure when faced with issues in software design and, incidentally, testing.

The Company

A company itself is a full-scale PDCA. It can be seen as a long-term solution to the problems identified in the market by its founders. The company continually conducts PDCA cycles: as it interacts with its customers and problems are identified, it can – and must – implement a learning cycle aimed at improvement.