| The Total Quality Management concept, based on the pioneering works of Dr. Deming and others, aims at a continuous improvement of the organization. One of the techniques used is concurrent design engineering which proposes that design alternatives and manufacturing processes be dealt with interactively instead of subsequently. In general, Design and Manufacturing are considered as two distinct entities, the Design department turning over the completed drawings to the Manufacturing department with the order to build it. This presents difficulties since there is an excess amount of work spent on problem correction during the manufacturing process. A team effort including Design and Manufacturing departments in addition to cross-functional communication with the other functions is going to determine the success of the Concurrent Design Engineering concept. This thesis, based on both engineering and management issues, will propose a strategic and updated approach to pre-market phases. |
