Finally - a "non-math" SPC book! This plant manager's guide explains how to use control charts, and the tremendous benefits that can be expected when Statistical Process Control is properly applied. These benefits include enhanced product performance, reduced cost, and streamlined delivery. Some of the topics discussed are: reading control charts, using control charts, good tools misused, tools for running your machine, benefits of running machines with SPC. Special appendices provide additional information about control chart calculations and plotting control limits. This book explains the role that SPC plays within a well-run factory; it is for businesspeople that want the big picture. After 30+ years of working with and teaching plant managers, author James Abbott has identified the qualities that set apart the most successful and promotable of this group. These managers have an intricate understanding of their machines, they are expert at assessing each component of their operation, and everyone at their facility has explicitly defined duties. These qualities are achieved by learning a specific set of holistic skills. The most powerful weapon in the plant manager's arsenal is Statistical Process Control (SPC). You don't need to be a math genius to harness the full power of SPC, but you do need to understand the role of engineers, quality professionals, and operators and how each fits within a well-run manufacturing facility. Promotable plant managers know WHO uses control charts and who uses capability studies WHAT Operations should be focusing on (hint: it isn't the product!) WHEN tacticians vs. strategists should be making decisions WHERE results should be posted WHY SPC improves performance, cuts cost, and streamlines delivery HOW to quickly benefit using SPC This book provides a unique opportunity for plant managers to study the interrelationships necessary to take full advantage of Statistical Process Control. Mr. Abbott's practical experience has shown that by adding decision-making, accountability, and knowledge base tools to the traditional control charts and capability studies, improvements are more quickly attained and more easily sustained. Running Your Machines with SPC explains how and why to use control charts. In addition to the conventional control charts and capability studies, you will be introduced to bonus tools like the Walkabout(R) Dependency Diagram. You will practice plotting readings on a control chart and learn what the data is saying about the process. Finally, you will follow along as a fictional candy company tries to implement SPC, but misuses some good tools. When the candy company correctly uses SPC, the benefits are immediately evident.