Statistical Quality Control (SQC) is a structured system of data-driven techniques used to monitor, maintain, and continuously improve product quality.
By analyzing process data and variation, manufacturers can detect problems early, correct them precisely, and deliver consistent results — a foundation of modern zero-defect manufacturing.
SQC combines statistical methods such as control charts, sampling inspections, and process capability analysis to ensure every product meets specification limits and every process runs at peak stability.
Competition, compliance, and cost pressure make data-driven quality control essential.
Manufacturers worldwide rely on SQC to:
SQC has evolved from manual sampling to automated, cloud-connected monitoring — linking machines, operators, and management in real time.
Visualize process variation and stability over time. Control limits help identify trends before defects occur.
Evaluate whether a process consistently meets specification limits and where performance improvements are needed.
Randomly check product samples to ensure overall batch quality — a cost-efficient way to validate process output.
Identify and categorize potential causes of deviations — from materials and methods to machines and manpower.
Focus improvement efforts on the few causes responsible for most quality losses (the 80/20 principle).
Traditional SQC stops at analysis.
Modern Cloud MES systems bring these methods to life — monitoring, analyzing, and alerting automatically.
A European food manufacturer used SYMESTIC Cloud MES to connect process data (temperatures, cycle times, alarms) in real time.
By detecting deviations early, they reduced scrap by 30 % and achieved stable quality across production lines — without additional manpower.
Another customer in the automotive industry improved uptime by 25 % after discovering that just four alarm codes caused 80 % of all stops.
Such insights are only possible when statistical quality data is available instantly.
| Approach | Focus | Typical Use Case | Example Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| SQC | Statistical evaluation of process and product data | Long-term process optimization | Sampling, Control Charts |
| SPC | Real-time process control and prevention | Shopfloor monitoring | MES / SCADA Systems |
| Quality Control Software | Integrated data collection, analysis & reporting | Factory-wide KPI dashboards | Symestic Cloud MES |
These methods work best when combined — SQC provides the statistical backbone, SPC delivers live control, and MES unites both in a single, connected platform.
With SYMESTIC Cloud MES, Statistical Quality Control becomes a continuous, automated process.
The platform captures data directly from machines and sensors (via OPC UA or digital I/O), calculates KPIs in real time, and visualizes trends across shifts, lines, and plants.
Key Advantages:
Instead of spreadsheets and manual charts, engineers and managers get instant visibility into process health — anywhere, anytime.