PDCA (plan-do-check-adjust) is the iterative four-step operationalization of the the Deming continuous quality improvement cycle for organizational processes (e.g., Toyota).

PLAN – establish objectives to target goals or outputs

DO – implement the plan while collecting data for analysis CHECK – study the actual results with a critical consideration of strengths and weaknesses

CHECK – study the actual results with a critical consideration of strengths and weaknesses

ADJUST – make modifications to the original baseline to improve effectiveness and/or efficiency