QC Circles (Quality Control Circles)

Small voluntary groups of workers who meet regularly to identify, analyze, and solve work-related problems using quality tools and structured problem-solving methods. Originated in Japan in the 1960s and became a cornerstone of Japanese quality management. QC Circles typically use the 7 QC Tools, PDCA cycle, and A3-style problem-solving. Emphasizes worker empowerment, continuous improvement, and bottom-up innovation. Different from management-driven improvement projects by being worker-initiated and focused on immediate work area problems. Builds problem-solving capability throughout the workforce.