I. PROBLEM STATEMENT What can Hank Kolb do to setting up a continuous improvement program and improve their quality performance on producing a zero-defected product?
II. CASE ANALYSIS
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What are the causes of the quality problems on the Greasex line? Display your answer on a fishbone diagram.
The primary problem is the lack of commitment to achieve an excellent quality product.. Themanagement lacks policies and visible support for quality standards.Although they have recently hired Hank Kolb to oversee their qualityprogram, which is a good decision, the lack of support from seniormanagement for quality is very apparent. It was evident in launchingthe Greasex line to gain market share without testing the processesinvolved in making the product as well as ensuring safety requirementsare achieved. They saw quality as only a secondary added value.Fishbone Diagram
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What general steps should Hank follow in setting up a continuous improvement program for the company? What problems will he have to overcome to make it work?
Hank Kolb needs to study meticulously thefundamental problems relating to the process in making Greasex linefrom equipment, input goods, and safety requirements. He shouldadvise the senior management to be involved in developing qualitystandards and seek full support in the implementation of saidstandards to change the attitude across the company. Mr. Kolb canthen start an awareness campaign to empower workers/employeesand give them clear understanding regarding the cost of poor qualityproducts against the value of good quality processes.
Series of Actions Hank Kolb can recommend to the Management
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Define clearly quality standards and align it with the company’s visionmission as a whole
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Extensive research and testing of new products should be done firstbefore launching them in the market. Processes