Factors associated with the success of the implementation of statistical process control

Implementation of new technologies intended to improve the quality of manufactured products has been hindered by a lack of knowledge of appropriate practices to manage its introduction into the workplace. The present study was designed to identify specific management activities associated with succe...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of high technology management research 1994, Vol.5 (1), p.101-121
Main Authors: Gordon, Michael E., Philpot, John W., Bounds, Gregory M., Long, W.Steven
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:Implementation of new technologies intended to improve the quality of manufactured products has been hindered by a lack of knowledge of appropriate practices to manage its introduction into the workplace. The present study was designed to identify specific management activities associated with successful implementation of Statistical Process Control (SPC). Hypotheses were tested regarding the effects on SPC implementations of higher management commitment, the structure of SPC training, the involvement of operatives in decision making about quality issues, and the salience of concerns about job security. SPC implementations in two samples of manufacturing departments ( N = 73 and 86) were investigated. After providing evidence of the construct validity of the implementation-success criterion, additional statistical tests indicated the importance of top management support for the implementation, the effectiveness of an inclusive approach to SPC training, the significance of relying on trainers who are organization members, and the salutary influence of frequent meetings to discuss quality problems.
ISSN:1047-8310
1879-1638
DOI:10.1016/1047-8310(94)90016-7