PDCA is a continuous improvement methodology used to plan, execute, check, and act on processes, aiming to eliminate failures, standardize best practices, and increase efficiency. It is widely used in quality management, industrial processes, testing laboratories, and production engineering.
What does PDCA mean?
| Stage | Meaning | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| P – Plan | Plan | Identify problems and define goals and methods for improvement. |
| D – Do | Execute | Implement the planned actions on a pilot or controlled scale. |
| C – Check | Check | Measure, monitor, and analyze the results obtained. |
| A – Act | Act | Standardize improvements or correct deviations, restarting the cycle. |
PDCA is cyclical, allowing for progressive and sustainable adjustments in processes.
Applications of PDCA in technical environments
The PDCA cycle is used in various contexts:
- Improvement of production and assembly lines
- Adjustment of test and validation parameters
- Reduction of recurring failures and rework
- Standardization of quality procedures
- Development and correction of test software
- Optimization of jigs and test benches
How AJOLLY Testing applies PDCA
At AJOLLY Testing, PDCA is incorporated into the routines of test engineering and quality:
🧠 PLAN – Plan
- Analysis of historical failure data (FPY, Pareto, logs)
- Evaluation of potential causes based on previous tests
- Setting goals: improve cycle time, reduce NDFs, increase repeatability
🛠️ DO – Execute
- Implementation of adjustments in jigs, fixtures, or instrumentation
- Updating sequences in the test software
- Execution of pilot tests or validation batches
📊 CHECK – Check
- Measurement of results: CPK, FPY, statistics by station or operator
- Comparison with control limits and previous benchmarks
- Generation of reports with graphical analysis
🔄 ACT – Act
- Definitive application of approved improvements
- Updating technical documentation and work instructions
- Restarting the cycle for new goals or detected problems
Benefits of PDCA with AJOLLY Testing
- Greater control over testing and production processes
- Standardization of best practices with updated documentation
- Reduction of defects and non-conformities
- Engagement of technical teams in continuous improvement
- Concrete data for audits, certifications, and end customers