Training, Problem Solving and Quality Improvement ‐ Some Forgotten Lessons from Japan

Schemes to improve quality performance have often concentrated on short‐term results or policy statements which do not establish the relevant work practices. In Japan such practices are firmly embedded in favourable cultural beliefs and organisational frameworks. The need in the UK is to establish a company framework which will encourage improved performance. The conclusion is that the unintended benefit of an integrated training scheme will provide such a framework.