"Workers' Brains as Well as Their Bodies": Quality Circles in a Federal Facility

Quality circles (QCs) are small groups of workers who meet on a regular basis to identify, analyze, and solve problems they experience in their jobs. QCs vary in size, but most range between three to 15 members from the same work area. Because members are generally from the same work location, they are familiar with the problems that the group identifies. Through quality circles, workers serve as "in-house" consultants on how to improve conditions and results. Furthermore, participation is voluntary-no one is forced to join or to stay out. To develop teamwork, each member of a circle has the opportunity to make suggestions or contribute in every meeting. The objectives for the circles are to: