In the PDCA cycle, Checking is the third stage in which the processes implemented in the Implementation stage and the results obtained are evaluated according to predetermined criteria. This stage aims to determine to what extent the planned goals have been achieved.
The Checking stage according to resources includes the following elements:
- Evaluation of whether the goals have been achieved according to predetermined qualitative or quantitative criteria. The goals determined in the Planning stage and their criteria are taken as reference in this stage.
- A valid and reliable measurement process must be carried out in order to make this evaluation. It is important to collect and analyze the obtained data correctly and consistently. Some participants point out the problem of data collection in the monitoring process.
- If deviations from the planned goals are observed, corrective actions can be implemented. This shows that the Checking stage is not only an evaluation, but also a process in which necessary interventions are made.
- It is stated that some organizations may have some methods to monitor defects, control customer complaints or product returns. Such monitoring activities can also be considered as part of the Checking stage.
- Institutional Internal Evaluation Reports should include explanations on how performance indicators are monitored. These reports are tools for documenting and sharing institutions’ Checking processes.
- In the context of the Higher Education Quality Board Graded Evaluation Key, the Checking phase refers to the monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and results of planned and implemented quality assurance processes or mechanisms.
Research findings show that the Plan and Implementation phases are generally successfully implemented in Turkish universities, while the Control and Measure phases remain inadequate. Participants list factors such as lack of information/awareness and the fact that the cycle is used only as a necessity among the reasons for this deficiency.
In summary, the Checking phase of the PDCA cycle is a critical phase where implementation results are compared with targets, performance is measured and deviations are detected. The data obtained from this phase form the basis for improvement activities to be carried out in the Measures phase and are of vital importance for the continuity of the continuous improvement cycle. However, it is observed that there are significant deficiencies in the implementation of this phase in Turkish universities.