Abstract:
The objective of this series is to help improve the competitiveness of
Oregon’s wood products manufacturers. This can be achieved by fostering a companywide focus on and dedication to continuous quality improvement.
W. Edwards Deming (1982) described the “chain reaction of quality.”
1. Quality is improved.
2. Costs decrease due to more efficient use of machines and materials
and less scrap, rework, errors, and downtime.
3. Productivity increases as a result of cost decreases.
4. The company can capture the market with better quality and
a lower price.
5. Competitive position improves, and the company stays in business.
6. Jobs are retained, and jobs are added as the company grows.
