Quality Measurement in the Wood Products Supply Chain

Abstract

In this article we report the first in-depth investigation of quality measurement practices from a supply chain perspective. Quality measurement in a wood products supply chain was studied in great detail with the objective of increasing the understanding of quality performance measurement practices in a secondary wood products supply chain. Opportunities for improvement were also identified. A single-case study was used as the main research approach, with 30 interviews and observation as major data collection methods. Findings revealed a high degree of internal integration in the focal company, made possible in great part by a continuous improvement effort that expands all of its facilities. Opportunities for improvement were found in external integration, particularly regarding supplier quality management. A disconnect was identified between supply chain members in regard to quality information; particularly, there was a lack of true supply chain quality measures reflecting the contribution of each enti...