Laadunhallintoryhmät

Laadunhallintoryhmät, known in English as quality circles, are small groups of employees who voluntarily meet regularly to identify, discuss, and solve problems related to their work. These groups typically consist of members who perform similar tasks, allowing them to have a deep understanding of the issues at hand. The primary goal of a laadunhallintoryhmä is to improve product quality, processes, and productivity.

The concept originated in Japan in the 1960s and has since been adopted by organizations worldwide. The members of a laadunhallintoryhmä are trained in problem-solving techniques, such as brainstorming, cause-and-effect diagrams, and statistical process control. They analyze data, identify root causes of problems, and propose solutions. Management typically supports these groups by providing resources, training, and a mechanism for implementing suggested improvements.

Laadunhallintoryhmät foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee involvement. They empower workers to take ownership of their work and contribute to the overall success of the organization. While not always a formal part of quality management systems, they represent a grassroots approach to enhancing quality and efficiency. The effectiveness of these groups often depends on strong management commitment and a supportive organizational culture that values employee input.