Critical success factors of continuous improvement in the public sector

Purpose To determine the critical success factors (CSFs) for continuous improvement projects in the public sector. Design/methodology/approach Theoretical paper based on a literature review. Findings It would appear that there are factors that are important in manufacturing organisations that do not figure in service/public sector organisations and vice versa. Research limitations/implications As few papers were identified, further research must be carried out into the CSFs to see if the differences between manufacturing, service and public sector organisations are substantiated. Practical implications This work identifies aspects that must be in place for the successful implementation of a continuous improvement project and should be used by those wishing to initiate a project within their organisation. Originality/value This paper highlights the similarities and differences between manufacturing, service and public sector organisations.