Quality Circle Survival: An Exploratory Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the extent and causes of the abandonment of individual workgroup meetings (or circles) within ongoing quality circle programs. Data are drawn from a cross‐sectional survey of quality circles in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. The data suggest that circles that are started during a program's first year tend to decay over time, but their survival increases with high levels of participatory management, job insecurity, low worker skill levels, and unions. Analysis of the union effect suggests that circle survival increases where unions are actively involved in and benefit from quality circle programs.