The PDCA cycle (also known as the Deming cycle or Shewhart cycle) consists of four steps:
* Plan: Recognize an opportunity and plan a change.
* Do: Test the change by carrying out a small-scale study.
* Check: Review the test results, analyze data, and identify learnings.
* Act: Take action based on what was learned. If the change didn't work, revise the plan and repeat the
* cycle.
The "checking" step is crucial because it informs subsequent actions. It doesn't necessarily produce corrective actions directly, but it guides decision-making. PDCA is a continuous improvement tool used in various contexts, including quality management, process improvement, and problem-solving1.
Remember that while PDCA is valuable, other improvement methodologies (such as Six Sigma, Lean, or Agile) may be more suitable for specific situations. The choice depends on the context, goals, and organizational needs12.
References:
* The ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Handbook, Fifth Edition. Sandra L.
Furterer and Douglas C. Wood. ASQ Quality Press, 2021. Link
* ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) Body of Knowledge (BoK).
ASQ. Link

The senior management team plays a crucial role in setting the strategic direction for the organization. They define the overall vision, mission, and goals, which guide the company's activities and decisions. These high- level objectives are essential for aligning the entire organization toward a common purpose and ensuring that quality is integrated into the company's core values and strategic planning. While other roles, such as individual quality managers and quality process teams, contribute to quality initiatives, the ultimate responsibility for defining and communicating the company's quality vision lies with senior management1.
: 1: ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

Senior management's active involvement in monitoring the progress of quality initiatives aligns with their commitment to organizational improvement. By tracking performance against strategic goals, they demonstrate a genuine interest in achieving quality excellence1. This approach ensures that quality efforts are not merely symbolic but are effectively integrated into the organization's overall strategy.
References: 1: ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence