"Continuous improvement" and "Continual improvement" are used interchangeably and shouldn't be used in that manner!. There is a difference. Let us start by analyzing the semantics of these words.
Continuous indicates duration without interruption.
Continual indicates duration that continues over a long period of time, but with intervals of interruption.
Continuous improvement means that organizations are in a constant state of driving process improvements. This involves a focus on linear and incremental improvement within existing processes.
Continual improvements means that organizations go through process improvements in stages and these stages are separated by a period of time. This period of time might be necessary to understand if the improvements did actually help the bottom line! In some cases, the results might take a while to come to fruition.
After researching this, I have found that the usage of these terms is very loose and interchangeably…A number of authors have recently published their opinions indicating that continual improvement is of a broader scope than continuous improvement.
I agree with their sentiment and in my opinion, it is best to focus on continual improvement and ensure that learning is captured through effective knowledge management.
"Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are my own only and in no way represent the views, positions or opinions - expressed or implied - of my employer (present and past) "
"Please post your comments - Swati Ranganathan"
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