Statistical Process Control

Read this chapter on the basics of statistical process control (SPC). SPC is a standard tool for monitoring whether a process is performing as expected and, if not, where problems occur. While reading, consider how this kind of tool factors in process capacity management.

Control Chart Functions

The main purpose of using a control chart is to monitor, control, and improve process performance over time by studying variation and its source. There are several functions of a control chart:

  1. It centers attention on detecting and monitoring process variation over time.
  2. It provides a tool for ongoing control of a process.
  3. It differentiates special from common causes of variation in order to be a guide for local or management action.
  4. It helps improve a process to perform consistently and predictably to achieve higher quality, lower cost, and higher effective capacity.
  5. It serves as a common language for discussing process performance.