Bang-for-Buck SPC
ARE YOU GETTING
THE MOST OUT OF
SPC?
SPC programs can offer great value to a business but if done poorly they can be a big resource sink. In the following sections we will discuss some tools and concepts that one must understand and adhere to, in order to ensure they avoid the most common, often costly, pitfalls when creating their SPC programs.
Why implementing SPC can be daunting?
And result in an expensive failure if proper care isn’t taken.
The idea of adopting SPC, and other statistical quality improvement programs, represents a major shift from the pre-established quality programs. These traditional approaches to quality management rely on detecting defects in products. SPC on the other hand is a process oriented approach, which aims to improve the processes involved in production, thus resulting in defect prevention.
Implementing an effective SPC program requires significant effort from all levels of an organization. The quality department can’t succeed in such an endeavor without organizational support and commitment.
Not only will it require an in-depth examination of the processes being employed, this will include a thorough analysis at both macro and micro levels through the use of flow charts and Pareto charts. Participation from production personnel is also key, as they are the ones who’ll be responsible for monitoring and taking proactive corrective measures.
* Moreover, if the push to adopt SPC isn’t directed in a particular direction, in order to achieve a particular result, and instead becomes an all-encompassing behemoth set of quality improvement activities and programs, then the resulting inefficacy and costs can lead to frustration and eventual disenfranchisement throughout the organization, making any future attempts even harder.
We recommend a small-scale targeted approach, focusing on the primary issue as determined by customer feedback and pareto analysis.
This should be a results-oriented effort, with a time horizon of a few months, not years.
But Why ?
Reason 1: Overcoming Resistance
By only introducing SPC where it’s needed the most, there is a much greater probability that everyone involved in that process is going to be excited for and be accepting of the new changes.
Reason 2: Best bang-for-buck
By targeting the most frequent and costly defect first, there is a lot potential value that can be added to the organization. This can set a powerful precedent.
Reason 3: Promotes incremental success
Focusing on one problem at a time makes it easier to succeed at achieving the desired result. This approach can then be extended to other problem areas.
Reason 4: Allows for trial-and-error
It’s easier to identify and correct mistakes at a small-scale without causing a significant monetary loss. Eventually it’ll give you a better idea of what works and what doesn’t.
Reason 5: Helps develop experience
With sustained successes comes a wealth of experience and confidence. Once you’ve produced tangible results, SPC will be more readily welcomed by everyone in the organization.
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