At TRW Automotive, employees around the world are helping the company fulfill its mission to be the Global Leader in Automotive Safety Systems.  Many are involved in TRW’s Continuous Improvement program, which focuses on achieving Business Excellence via Four Strategic Priorities: Best Quality Lowest Cost Global Reach Innovative Technology TRW’s Continuous Improvement program is composed of interrelated Business Excellence initiatives in play throughout the company’s functions and operations.  TRW’s key processes – including contract acquisition, launch and order fulfillment -- have significantly evolved over the last several years in response to changing market conditions.  Key methods (Six Sigma, Design For Six Sigma, Lean and Knowledge Management) have become embedded in our processes and are helping transform the company. A well-trained team of 19 lead change agents – either Six Sigma lead black belts or corporate Lean promotion officers – are driving TRW’s global strategy for Continuous Improvement.  They are supported by 24 Six Sigma master black belts, 147 full-time black belts and 81 full-time Lean promotion officers, as well as many, many green belts and other team members.  It’s no surprise that most of last year’s cost-reduction targets were surpassed, considering these statistics: Employees participated in 4,542 Continuous Improvement activities. There were 2,136 Operations Excellence workshops and manufacturing projects with 7,029 employee participants. A total of 2,831 participants worked 1,641 Six Sigma projects. Finally, 1,934 employees participated in 765 Engineering Excellence projects. Continuous Improvement generates results: competitive advantage, business growth, improved quality, profit/shareholder value, business success.  Continuous Improvement is part of the culture at TRW…..and is increasing customer satisfaction.