Title: AN INVESTIGATION OF THE EXTENT TO WHICH THE SEVEN BASIC QUALITY TOOLS ARE USED TO EFFECT IMPROVEMENTS IN QUALITY AND PRODUCTION PROCESSES AT A BATTERY MANUFACTURING COMPANY IN SOUTHERN AFRICA
Abstract: This is a case study that investigates the extent to which the seven basic quality tools are used to effect improvements in quality and production processes at a battery manufacturing company in Southern Africa, hereafter referred to as Company B. The company manufactures lead acid batteries for the manufacturing, mining and automotive sector. The study is a case study conducted at one of the branches of the company and it analysesdepartments and processes where these tools find application. It also looks at the scope of application and the logical approach followed in identifying the causes of quality problems. Quality and process improvements derived from the use of the tools were discussed. The study revealed that the tools are applied throughout the company from sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of finished products. Benefits enjoyed by Company B include low rejects and reworks, better customer/supplier relationships and teamwork within the company workers. Although Company B enjoys these benefits, it experiences challenges in applying the tools in a structured manner.
Publication Year: 2014
Publication Date: 2014-06-24
Language: en
Type: article
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