From Quality Circles to Total Quality

Abstract

Quality circles are a sign of the times, and their success provokes legitimate irritation for those confronted with their development. They often spark off controversy and generate subjective points of view that denote a downright unwillingness to regard them fairly. What is the bottom line? Should quality circles be discontinued? Are they a means of zeroing in on total quality and, if so, how can the circles become fully integrated and contribute to instituting total quality? These issues are examined.