This guideline includes written and graphic descriptions of thefundamental processes and common supporting elements in a continualimprovement (CI) program. It provides the user with definitions, concepts,methods, and tools for implementing an effective program and meetingapplicable requirements. The CI fundamental processes include thefollowing:Identifying opportunities for improvement (OFIs)Selecting an opportunityGenerating solution(s)Implementing solution(s)Evaluating effect of solution(s)Integrating and sustaining improvement(s)The CI common supporting elements include, but are not limited to:Management reviewTeamworkImprovement models and toolsDocuments and recordsChange managementRisk managementCommunicationThis guideline is intended for use by all organizations and individualsinvolved in the management or execution of preexamination, examination,and postexamination phases of the medical laboratory. This documentmay be applicable to other laboratories and nonlaboratory settings.This guideline is not meant to be prescriptive nor a comprehensiveinstructional manual for using the tools described. It does not addresscontent and detail covered in other CLSI documents nor requirementsspecific to any regulatory or accrediting organization.