You can find many different books on Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma. This book is different because it addresses the relation between Lean and other improvement methods that have been proven to be successful over the past decades, such as TQM, Kaizen, TPM and Six Sigma. These methods, tools and techniques have been united in the 'Continuous Improvement Maturity Model' (CIMMTM). CIMM is an open standard and is maintained by the 'Lean Six Sigma Academy' (LSSA). The framework describes the process of Continuous Improvement from a very early stage through to delivering World Class products and services. The CIMM framework connects Lean, Six Sigma and other improvement methods. The framework incorporates the best practices, methods and techniques of process improvement, quality management and new product development. The framework also connects the so-called 'Hard'-elements of process improvement and the so-called 'Soft'-elements of organizational development and change management.