Continuous improvement (CI) systems have become ingrained in business throughout the world over the past 20 years. Yet, when one surveys the current literature, there is very little information surrounding the implementation of CI, specifically in an R&D organisation. This presentation will focus on the approach taken by Philip Morris USA R&D to design and implement a CI system. The efforts of a cross-functional team to build awareness of basic principles, determine organizational receptivity and needs, and develop an implementation plan will be described. Key components reviewed will include the importance of launching early pilot teams to validate problem solving methodologies, training throughout the organization, integration with other business systems, and executive leadership.