The National Shipbuilding Research Program, Analytical Quality Circles
Abstract
The abbreviation "TQC" stands for Total Quality Control, a largely Japanese outgrowth of the worldwide quality control movement. To many people, Quality Control (QC) originally meant no more than testing to check the quality of finished goods. Later, statistical techniques (statistical quality control methods) were introduced. More recently, TQC was developed, because with the automated processes and high technology used today, it is difficult for a small group of specialists or inspectors alone to control the quality of a final product. Before, QC affected things that could be measured and weighed, e.g., ships, engines and their parts. Today, we have come to realize that the quality of work, too, can be controlled, and so QC is now used in the fields of management, sales, and service. Even in the most ultramodern highly-mechanized works, people are needed to design, manufacture and sell products that customers require. That is why people are one of the key factors in planning and execution of a TQC Movement. In Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (IHI) there is a policy to constantly improve the quality of products and services, but that is not all. Most of all, TQC activities are aimed at helping the people who play the most fundamental roles in the company's business.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA444033