In this paper, we suggest a realistic approach to assess product quality problem of a manufacturing firm through in-depth case study and various methodologies. We first analyzed the case qualitatively and gathered data to model the problem in a structural way,
To identifying the supply chain level factors that determine final product quality, we employed several approaches including in-depth case study, statistical analysis, and simulation. Through statistical analysis, we found that 4 factors to determine quality such as a critical supplier’s supplying quantity, manufacturer’s capability to accommodate operation quantity fluctuation, defect drivers which are mainly dependent on supplier side, defect drivers stem from unfit between manufacturer and suppliers. Additionally we could affirm that there exists a certain critical supplier who influences the final product quality level more severely than other suppliers.
And we formed a simulation model that can reflect the situation of the case. The simulation indicates that if other conditions are same, the improvement of defect drivers raised from unfit between manufacturer and suppliers is efficient.
This research helps managers control product quality problems and plays a role of guideline in a practical quality problem solving process.