What is the primary use of peer reviews in a process improvement context?

Peer reviews are primarily used for defect detection in a process improvement context. This practice involves team members reviewing each other's work to identify errors, inconsistencies, or quality issues early in the development process. By catching defects before they progress further, peer reviews help maintain high quality and reduce downstream costs associated with late corrections or poor quality products. This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of deliverables but also encourages knowledge sharing among team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

While peer reviews can contribute to team building and may indirectly lead to cost reduction by minimizing defects, their main focus is on identifying and addressing issues promptly, ensuring that the final product meets the established quality standards.