Physical Science, Measurement and Instrumentation, Management and Education, IEE Proceedings A

The authors present the main findings of an in-depth study of the quality circle programme of a leading European manufacturer of printed-circuit boards, the company is based at two manufacturing locations in the West of Scotland. A diary of events relating to quality circles from 1983 to 1988 is presented along with an analysis of the key issues in the programme. Quality circles were introduced by the company for all the right reasons, but they operated for some 18 months or so outside of a total approach to the management of quality. When the company decided to develop company objectives and goals for total quality management, a crucial element was to clearly define the role of quality circles in relation to this concept. The weaknesses of the circle programme relate to project resolution, operating structure and publicity, and training.