• A philosophy based on the teaching of the late Yuzuru Ito, the company’s advisor on quality methodologies. This is institutionalized in the Ito University, a week-long training session that runs continuously at each business unit.
• A system that helps the organization identify and solve problems, improve processes, and assist with strategic thinking.
• The competence, commitment, and involvement of the entire organization.

ACE is implemented on the micro level, with employees being trained and empowered to implement the standard processes across the company. Through a rigorous, data-driven process assessed by internal auditors, employees and their organizations progress through the qualifying, bronze, silver, and gold levels of ACE.