Developing and implementing statistical process control tools in a Jordanian company

Statistical Quality Control (SQC) is a branch of Total Quality Management (TQM) that defines a quality philosophy and set the guiding principles that represent the foundation for a continuously improving organisation. Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Acceptance Sampling are the two major parts of SQC. SPC is an effective tool that aims to get and keep processes under control and ensure that the product is manufactured as designed and intended. SPC is comprised of seven tools: Pareto diagram, cause and effect diagram, check sheets, process flow diagram, scatter diagram, histogram and control charts. A case study has been carried out to monitor real life data in a Jordanian manufacturing company that specialises in producing fertilisers. Pareto diagram, histograms and control charts for variables were implemented to investigate the major causes of non-conformities and possible remedies were proposed. The full strength of the seven statistical control tools was implemented and other companies are encouraged to follow suite and implement them simultaneously. Copyright © 2009 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.