What is the PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT cycle also known as?

The PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT cycle is also known as the Deming wheel, named after W. Edwards Deming, a renowned advocate for quality management and continuous improvement. This cycle represents a systematic approach to solving problems and improving processes through iterative steps.

The PLAN phase involves identifying a goal or objective and planning how to achieve it. In the DO phase, the plan is implemented on a small scale to test its effectiveness. The CHECK phase assesses the results of the implementation to determine if the desired outcomes have been achieved. Finally, the ACT phase involves making adjustments based on the findings to enhance the process or system further.

This continuous cycle emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and refinement, making it a cornerstone of quality management initiatives across various industries. In this context, the other options do not accurately reflect the established identity of the PLAN-DO-CHECK-ACT cycle. For instance, while Lean and Six Sigma are methodologies that aim to improve efficiency and quality, they do not represent the specific iterative process encapsulated in the Deming wheel. The term "Feedback Loop" refers more broadly to systems in which outputs are used as inputs for the next cycle, rather than a defined cycle of quality improvement as structured by Deming.