Quality Control Circles; Towards a Computerized Simulation

Authors

  • Scott Magruder
  • David Hunt

Abstract

Japanese industry implemented Edward Demings ideas for quality production in the 1950’s. This helped to transform their products from one considered to be poor in quality to one of high quality. This drastic change has been noted in American industry and attempts to emulate their successful techniques have occurred. One of these techniques is the concept of Quality Circles. The results of Quality Circle implementation in the United States has led some to conclude that they are only fads, really a beginning step toward some form of participatory management. However, many of the failures of Quality Circles can be traced to an incorrect implementation and/or incorrect usage of the technique. This paper develops a model which will allow students to learn (1) the correct procedure for implementing Quality Circles and other aspects of Demings quality approach; and (2) both the benefits and negative aspects of using Quality Circles in an ongoing business concern.

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Published

1989-03-09