Definitionv1
Kaizen: the disciplined practice of continuous, incremental
Kaizen: the disciplined practice of continuous, incremental improvement within an existing framework, characterized by small, measurable gains that compound over time to produce significant cumulative value.
Why This Is a Definition
This definition establishes 'kaizen' as a precise cognitive operation by identifying its genus (disciplined practice) and differentia (continuous incremental improvement within existing frameworks). It distinguishes kaizen from kaikaku by emphasizing its within-framework nature and compounding effects, making it clearly distinguishable from the radical reform approach of kaikaku while maintaining consistency with the Japanese manufacturing context.