Let's walk through the PDCA methodology in practice, using the example task "Prepare a presentation for a client."
Plan — create the task
Create the task and specify:
- Goal — for example, "a 15-slide presentation following the brand guide."
- Success criteria — structure, brand colors, accurate data, meeting the deadline.
- Steps — get the brief → build the structure → prepare visuals → get approval → deliver the final version.
- Risks — delayed data, lengthy revision rounds from the client.
Attach the brief and any needed materials to the task, so everything stays in one place.
Do — work inside the task
While the task is in progress:
- create a checklist of steps inside the task;
- check off items as you complete them;
- attach intermediate file versions;
- leave short comments as you go.
This keeps the task organized and shows progress — not just for you, but for anyone who looks at it.
Check — compare plan and outcome
Once the work is done:
- compare what you planned with what actually happened ("Plan → Actual");
- note what went great and what took longer than expected.
This understanding is the foundation for planning more accurately next time.
Act — draw conclusions
Record your conclusions right there, in the task or in a comment:
- What's worth doing the same way next time?
- What needs to change?
- Which steps can be simplified or added?
Next time you create a similar task, you'll already be building on these conclusions — and the PDCA cycle continues at a new level.