Taking a step forward in continuous improvement

Abstract


 
 
 
 
 
 In order to overcome barriers to quality improvement and sustaining continuous improvement, services must plan and apply specific strategies. Especially in Brazil, both private and public systems face an urgent need to maintain successful improvements in the current scenario of increasingly restricted budgets through innovative approaches. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present a narrative view of strategies to sustain continuous improvement. Methods: This article describes a narrative review of literature on the following databases: Emerald, Scopus (Elsevier), OneFile (GALE), Technology Research Database, Web of Science and Engineering Research Database, using the terms: 'sustainability' and 'continuous improvement '. Findings: This study selected 18 articles from 2003 onwards, showing a yearly growthin number of publications, which pointsan increasing presence of continuous improvement initiatives worldwide. Discussion: This literature review shows a growing concern to provide a reliable framework for evidence-based improvements, combined with innovation and a system wide approach. This literature review should assist other scholars and practitioners who are interested in substantiating their improvement efforts.