Physical Science, Measurement and Instrumentation, Management and Education, IEE Proceedings A

The Nissan Motor plant was set up on a ´green-field´ site in County Durham, and has evolved a working culture that successfully blends Japanese and British characteristics, and has had constructive co-operation from the single trade union, AEU. The key role and authority of each supervisor, as leader of his work team, is described, together with the contribution that team members make through the concept of ´kaizen´ (continuous improvement). Emphasis is placed on the three elements: teamwork, flexibility and quality.