Statistical Thinking in quality improvement: use, difficulties and benefits of its implantation in industries of the Brazilian State of São Paulo

Abstract Paper aims Identify the use of statistical thinking and techniques and their main difficulties and benefits in the Brazilian State of São Paulo industries. Originality There are few empirical studies on the application of the statistical thinking and techniques which study their difficulties of implementation and their benefits in manufacturing companies. Research method A web survey of a sample of 243 manufacturing companies. Main findings The companies, in general, use some statistical principles and basic techniques for process control and improvement, however, companies th...