Abstract :
The outcome of a decision by Applied Digital Data Systems Inc. (ADDS), a terminal manufacturer, to relocate to the US is discussed. A key aspect of ADDS strategy was the development of a flexible, just-in-time (JIT) system with built-in quality assurance. Also crucial was the understanding that quality assurance required the best efforts possible from ADDS employees and suppliers. ADDS focuses squarely on ´as-built´ quality, instead of results-based management, which does not always foster quality. Single-cell assembly, in which a single operator assembles an entire product at one assembly station, or work cell, was used. Measures were taken to achieve 100% quality and to increase employee satisfaction.<>
Keywords :
assembling; flexible manufacturing systems; management; production control; quality control; FMS; QC; USA; assembly; development; display terminals; employee satisfaction; just-in-time; management; manufacturing industries; production control; quality assurance; relocation; Assembly systems; Displays; Education; Flexible manufacturing systems; Manufacturing processes; Production; Quality assurance; Quality management; Research and development; Turning;