Engineering quality improvement through tqc activity

The author describes the total quality control (TQC) principle and techniques for use in an engineering department, on the basis of practical experience of one Japanese manufacturer. In the example, TQC activity adoption significantly improved design quality and engineer activity. The main measures were data-based decision process and quality conscious attitude revolution for engineers and all company members related to the product. TQC was originated in Japan, and its concepts and measures are based on Japanese industrial culture. The problems caused by the introduction of these measures into a particular industrial culture are discussed.