After a project team completes a gap analysis, the next step is to

The correct answer is A. develop improvement goals . The CSSBB source defines gap analysis as a tool for comparing current performance with desired or potential performance in order to identify the difference between what is and what should be . Once that gap is understood, the logical next step is to define the goals and targets needed to close it. Supporting Lean Six Sigma planning material also shows that after understanding the current situation, teams establish goals and targets and then create implementation and follow-up plans.

Creating a value stream map generally occurs earlier when the team is trying to understand the current and future state. Communicating results to management may be important, but it is not the primary analytical next step in the improvement sequence. Revising operational goals could happen later, but first the team must define what improved performance should look like. Gap analysis exists to direct resources toward achieving a desired objective, so it naturally feeds into goal-setting. Therefore, the best CSSBB-aligned answer is A. develop improvement goals .