Benefits of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) is a systematic approach to achieving ongoing improvements in a product or service. CQI users define the problem, map the process, identify improvement opportunities, implement the improvements and continually monitor the results for improvement opportunities. There are several benefits of using CQI.

Use of data

CQI uses quantitative information (e.g., output, defects) instead of subjective information to improve the process. Monitoring the data identifies ongoing opportunities for improvement.

Improved morale

The use of CQI helps improve employee morale by not blaming the employee for the problems in the system. Instead, it focuses on the problems in the process, not the people performing the process.

Better customer service

Because CQI focuses on continuously improving the organization's performance and removing problems from the system, customer satisfaction increases.

Increased productivity

Removing errors from the process results in fewer errors and less repeat work on the part of the employees. Less repeat work means increased productivity.

Increased revenue

By removing errors and increasing customer service, the organization has the opportunity for increased sales.

References

• What is CQI?
• Continuous Quality Improvement
• How to make CQI work for you: Continuous quality improvement of health care

Resources

• American Society for Quality (ASQ)