Kakushin (革新) is a Japanese term translated as "radical innovation" or "transformation. In the context of Lean , it represents a fundamental and rapid breakthrough that approaches a process, product or system in an entirely new way. Whereas Kaizen (continuous, incremental improvement) is about perfecting the current method, Kakushin is focused on eliminating the existing and creating a better, smarter approach.
Kakushin versus Kaizen
Both principles complement each other. After a Kakushin breakthrough, the new standard is further optimized through Kaizen. A good example is the introduction of a completely new production line (Kakushin
), after which daily operational tasks on that line are continuously improved (Kaizen
).
In summary, Kaizen is evolution, while Kakushin is revolution.