What is the primary objective of the 'Plan' phase in the Deming Cycle?

In the Deming Cycle, also known as the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, the primary objective of the 'Plan' phase is to identify the problem, establish a goal, and develop a plan to achieve that goal. This phase is crucial as it lays the groundwork for continuous improvement. By thoroughly identifying the problem, teams can understand the root causes affecting performance or quality. Establishing clear goals provides direction and ensures that efforts are aligned with desired outcomes. Finally, developing a plan outlines specific actions, resources, and timelines needed to reach those goals, setting the stage for effective implementation in the subsequent phases of the cycle.

This structured approach emphasizes the importance of planning before taking action, ensuring that teams are prepared and informed, which ultimately leads to more successful outcomes during the implementation stage. The other options focus on aspects that either don't encapsulate the entirety of what the 'Plan' phase entails or jump too quickly into implementation or analysis without the objective of goal-setting and planning.