What change did W. Edwards Deming make to Shewhart's PDCA cycle?

W. Edwards Deming made a significant refinement to Shewhart's PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle by replacing the term "check" with "study." This change emphasizes a more comprehensive analysis of the results obtained during the "Do" phase. By using the word "study," Deming encouraged a deeper examination of the data collected, promoting a greater focus on understanding the implications of the results and fostering continuous improvement.

The shift from "check" to "study" highlights the importance of not just verifying outcomes but delving into the reasons behind those outcomes. This approach aligns with Deming's philosophy of quality management, which advocates for learning from each cycle in order to enhance processes and drive better results over time. By making this change, he reinforced the value of reflection and learning as fundamental components of effective quality improvement initiatives.