Attributions of Quality Circles' Problem-Solving Failure: Differences among Management, Supporting Staff, and Quality Circle Members

Abstract

Employees with experiences in a quality circle (QC) program were asked to answer a questionnaire that measured the attributions of quality circles' (QCs) problem-solving failure. Seven clearly interpretable factors were identified: Lack of top-management support, lack of QC members' commitment, lack of problem-solving skills, QC members' turnover, the nature of the task, lack of support from staff members, and lack of data and time. The nomological network of the 24-item questionnaire is also examined. Further, management personnel made significantly lower attributional ratings concerning lack of top-management support than supporting staff and QC members.