Sociotechnical systems analysis was employed to study the inputs, processes and outputs of a Navy warehouse complex. The analysis identified the key points that required control to maintain and improve quality and productivity. These points (key variances) are the most meaningful focus for measurement and analysis using the principles and methods of statistical process control (SPC). Existing data from the warehouse were analyzed using several SPC techniques (run charts and control charts) and presented to managers. This information provided them new insights into system capabilities and performance.
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