The SQCDP board method, often associated with the dashboard used to implement it, is a widely used visual management tool in industry. The method identifies any problems that may arise throughout a given process, with the aim of optimizing production.
In this article, we will look at how best to apply the method in the production plant, what an SQCDP dashboard consists of, what the five dimensions behind the acronym are, and why you should digitalize this visual management tool.
What is an SQCDP board?
The SQCDP dashboard is a visual management tool that enables a company to measure its performance in relation to key criteria. The initials SQCDP stand for those key criteria, which are Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery and Productivity. The dashboard is used to track the evolution of the company’s performance indicators over time.
There are multiple benefits from using an SQCDP dashboard. First, it provides a quick and easy overview of the company’s performance, making it easier to detect problems and identify areas for improvement. In addition, this type of dashboard can serve as a communication medium for all employees in the company (from field staff to site managers), highlighting objectives and the results achieved.
The 5 SQCDP dashboard indicators
S for Safety
The first aspect to be tracked via the SQCDP board is safety. Implementing protocols for the prevention of workplace accidents in the factory is a very important issue for companies, and one that requires a considerable effort on the part of managers. Involving employees in safety-related decisions is effective as it leads to greater compliance with the rules they helped set, and gives them a better understanding of the hazards in their working environment. Employees can also identify risks that managers may not have noticed.
Q for Quality
The pursuit of operational excellence, which underpins lean management, aims to build quality into every link in the value chain. Here too, employee involvement in continuous process improvement plays an essential role, alongside the implementation of rigorous quality control systems at every stage of production.
C for Cost
Budget control is a crucial aspect for managers, as reducing production costs has a direct impact on company profits and customers’ value perception.
D for Delivery
As already mentioned, the client’s perception of product quality is not just based on the intrinsic nature of the product. It encompasses all steps in the value chain, including logistics.
P for People
Thanks to the SQCDP table, managers and staff can report events to do with human resources management, such as leave and absences, overtime, the main causes of absence, or training…
It should be noted that the five aspects are not distinct from each other, because a shortfall in one leads to shortfalls in others.
How to apply the SQCDP method in production?
The SQCDP board is very useful during SIM (short interval management) meetings, one of the pillars of lean management. These meetings bring together all the players involved in the production process. Together, they identify problems and improvement opportunities, and suggest concrete solutions to optimize the production process. It is a great way to promote team motivation and investment.
In practice, to set up the SQCDP method, all you need to do is create a table with five columns, one for each of the five aspects seen above. Each column is divided into 31 boxes, representing the days of the month. At the foot of each column is a space where you can record any problems identified during the meeting.
Why digitalize the SQCDP dashboard?
As digitalization has evolved, a number of digital tools have been created to facilitate implementation of the SQCDP method. There are many benefits:
- real-time data collection and analysis, enabling early detection of anomalies and immediate action to correct them;
- a more visual and interactive process, which makes it much easier for everyone involved to understand and participate;
- smoother communication, enabling more effective collaboration between the different players;
- data history, which helps to see progress and keep a record of information.
Overall, digitalizing the SQCDP method is a smart choice for companies in all sectors of industry who are seeking to optimize their production and improve their efficiency.