I will be making a report on board of directors of SS LTD and will be discussing why
quality management is non negotiable for Strines stoves LTD. The aim is to help the
board understand the current production system needs to change and how quality
achievement techniques can improve this.
Quality management links to a lot of management functions. This can be planning,
organising, coordinating, controlling, monitoring, delegating, and what not. It is
supported by leadership skills such as supporting and inspiring teams, and this can
be shown in ways like building relationships and encouraging staff involvement.
Because SSLtd operates in a very competitive heating market, stronger quality
systems will help the business meet customer expectations, run more efficiently,
and work towards a good quality standard.
Understanding Quality Management
Quality management refers to all activities where products meet a consistent and
reliable standard. It involves the functions of management such as planning the
work process, organising resources, coordinating the flow of tasks, delegating
responsibility, and controlling quality through regular checks. Quality management
supports improvement, which means small adjustments are often made to improve
performance over time.
A quality management system aims to prevent defects rather than only checking for
them at the end. It also encourages open communication and involvement from the
workforce. So, managers must use leadership skills to inspire and energise staff to
take responsibility for their work. A strong quality system becomes part of the
culture of the business. It influences the attitudes, values, and behaviours of the
workforce.
Quality management also links to developing a quality culture. A quality culture
means everyone in the business cares about quality and works together to achieve
, it. It involves commitment from managers, a shared understanding of quality
standards, and consistent teamwork.
Why Quality Management is Important for SSLtd
Meeting customer expectations
The domestic heating market is influenced by energy efficiency, fuel prices, and
environmental concerns. Customers want stoves that save energy and perform
reliably. Without strong quality control SSLtd may struggle to meet these
expectations. A quality system helps ensure that each stove is built consistently
and safely.
SSLtd can improve this by setting clear quality standards for each stage of
production and checking products more often. This can help the business deliver
stoves that meet customer expectations and reduce the risk of faults. It also
supports the CEO’s aim of keeping competitive advantages.
Outdated production system
The case study shows that the production processes at SSLtd have not changed
since the business was set up in 1985. This shows a lack of planning and
continuous improvement. Modern heating products require precise production
techniques. SSLtd risks falling behind if they don't update its methods.
SSLtd can improve by reviewing the entire production process and redesigning it
using ideas like at JLR. This would involve planning the flow of work more clearly,
reducing wasted time, and removing steps that don’t add any value. Updating the
process will make production smoother and life easier, reduce delays, and more
convenient.