Total quality control using PCs in an engineering company

Increasing competition and the need for higher reliability have created new dimensions in the measurement of quality and targeting for zero defect production. Traditionally, the quality control function was performed by a team of inspectors. Quality control has not become a company-wide phenomenon. Conventional tools and sampling plans are of limited use today. Effective organizational quality implementation strategy, backed by involvement of top management and adequate information systems, is needed to achieve the desired quality levels. This work deals with development and implementation of total quality control using PCs in an organization engaged in development and manufacture of precision engineering components. The approach used in this work has been needbased and evolutionary, since the problem-solving capability and expertise needed had to be developed from within the organization. This study forms a part of a project dealing with transformation of an organization using conventional production technology into a computer-integrated manufacturing facility. A quality database has been created. It is continuously updated to provide on-line information to employees in analysing the factors affecting quality and for taking on the spot decisions. With the implementation of a total quality control system the organization is now being sought after by customers looking for quality products.