We also optimize our continuous improvement processes time and again. An international working group assessed the existing instruments for continuous improvement. The best practices compiled in 2006 were identified and then made available worldwide. The following instruments were selected for expansion to a worldwide Group standard: improvement projects, workshops, and suggestions for improvement.

We undertake improvement projects over a set - usually fairly long - period of time within a project structure. Everyone involved in the project pursues a goal clearly defined by the management. A project plan, including milestones for monitoring the progress of the project, is drawn up. An improvement project is considered to have been successfully completed if the effectiveness of the measures introduced can be demonstrated.

Workshops are held by the employees within a business unit, e.g., Production, Development, or Logistics. In their initial phase, the workshops are supported by a moderator. The employees form a team that holds improvement workshops at regular intervals. The objective of these workshops is also set by management, and the progress toward the goal is reassessed at each workshop. The team is responsible for introducing the necessary measures. If required, the management or other business units are brought in to provide support. In this way, we are able to frequently achieve significant progress in the area of quality.

Employees' suggestions for improvement are an absolutely essential part of this concept. Whereas improvement projects and improvement workshops focus on set objectives, employees can contribute in an entirely personal way to the continuous improvement of the Company by submitting their own suggestions.

Together with the Corporate Quality Management, the quality managers of the product lines assess the results produced worldwide by the three instruments for continuous improvement in order to identify the best practices. The methods and tools for the best practices can be accessed via a quality management platform on the internal MAHLE network. The methods and tools are then selected and used on site by the quality managers of the plants and profit centers.