Statistical techniques for quality

When objective decisions are to be made, statistical methods should be used based on any objective information in the form of data collected about a product or process. Statistical techniques such as control charts, process capability indices and design of experiments have been used in the manufacturing industry for many years. There are a number of practical and managerial issues related to the application of statistical techniques in studies aimed at improving process and product quality. This paper is a summary of the thoughts and discussions from a recent Internet conference on this issue. Statistical process control techniques and their role in process improvement are first discussed and some issues related to the interpretation and use of experimental design techniques are also summarised. The focus will be on continuous quality improvement using statistical techniques.