ABSTRACT
This chapter describes Continuous Improvement (Cl) in Finnish companies. The survey was carried out in collaboration with the Finnish Quality Association. The results show that Cl is not particularly advanced in Finland when compared with the rest of the European sample. The Finnish firms use fewer problem-solving tools and more quality systems to support Cl. However, they value supportive leadership, teamwork and problem-solving tools more highly than current usage suggests. The results indicate that strategies of Continuous Improvement have not been sufficiently supported by long-term commitment and tools suitable for the Finnish culture.
