Statistical Process Control (SPC) as an Instrument for Generating Competitive Advantages

Abstract

Statistical Process control (sPc) is a tool for quality and process control. on the one hand, it supports the pursuit of effort minimization, and on the other hand, the secure assessment of processes. due to constantly increasing customer requirements and ever increasing competitive pressure, a corresponding continuous increase in quality is required. In order to be able to use sPc successfully, certain conditions must be met. In the planning phase of new products or services for example, it should already be recognized which characteristics need to be considered as quality-critical. This paper identifies, due to a qualitative research approach through problem-centered interviews in the technical organization of a leading international company in the flexible packaging industry, necessary preparations for a stepwise implementation of sPc in an organization. The selection of the respective characteristics and of the measuring and testing technology is discussed, as well as the execution of appropriate ability examinations and the representation in quality control charts. In addition, brief and concluding comments will be made on corresponding preparatory work for an efficient output of the measurement data in an operating data acquisition system.