Directions for Product Quality Improvement in the Context of Modern Russian Economic Development
This study determines potential reserves for improving the quality of products manufactured by Russian enterprises in modern conditions. This problem has become crucial due to the tightening measures in both foreign policy and the global economy. For instance, sanctions have been imposed on Russia while Russia has also entered the WTO; therefore, there has been a demand for making domestic products competitive in the global market. Tasks. To summarize domestic and foreign experiences of using product quality improvement tools and determine the organizational and economic basis for an effective product quality management process within an enterprise. Methods. This study uses general scientific methods to analyze modern problems, conditions, and directions of product quality improvement. Simulation modeling tools were used to develop a mechanism for product quality improvement. Results. Priority directions for product quality improvement in Russian enterprises were determined. These include (1) improving the quality of energy resources used in production, (2) modernizing equipment, (3) applying streamlined processes of production organization, and (4) implementing complex automated management systems. An organizational mechanism for product quality improvement, based on E. Deming’s cycle of continual improvement, was proposed. It allows harmonizing the process of realizing product quality reserves with the objectives of economic activity. Conclusions. Examining various approaches to product quality improvement, prospects of Russian enterprises’ modernization were determined and an algorithm for the use of quality reserves was developed to enhance the competitiveness of Russian industries.