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The “Daily Challenge” Tool: A Practical Approach for Managing Non-Conformities in Industry

Author

Listed:
  • Mirel Glevitzky

    (Faculty of Economics, “1 Decembrie 1918” University of Alba Iulia, 15-17 Unirii Street, 510009 Alba Iulia, Romania
    Faculty of Engineering Hunedoara, Politehnica University Timişoara, 5 Revolutiei Street, 331128 Hunedoara, Romania)

  • Ioana Glevitzky

    (Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Directorate of Alba County, 7A Lalelelor Street, 510217 Alba Iulia, Romania)

  • Paul Mucea-Ștef

    (Solina România S.R.L., 7 Calea Ciugudului Street, 510382 Alba Iulia, Romania)

  • Maria Popa

    (Faculty of Economics, “1 Decembrie 1918” University of Alba Iulia, 15-17 Unirii Street, 510009 Alba Iulia, Romania)

Abstract

Non-conformities—deviations from established standards or procedures—can significantly impact product quality and process performance. Although various tools and methodologies exist, current research lacks an integrated, deferred, and corrective approach to non-conformance management that bridges day-to-day operations with systematic quality control. The proposed tool aims to address this gap by providing a practical framework that combines batch data processing using the “Daily Challenge” tool with structured problem solving and corrective strategies. It serves as a comprehensive decision-making tool for systematically managing deviations. The methodology begins with identifying non-conformities through data collection and direct observation, followed by focused reporting and active discussion during departmental meetings. Issues are then categorized based on their frequency, operational impact, and resource requirements to determine the appropriate resolution path—whether through immediate correction or detailed analysis using structured tools such as the “Daily Challenge” sheet. It integrates well-established methodologies such as 5M and PDCA into a structured, daily workflow for resolving non-conformities. Implemented solutions are evaluated for effectiveness with ongoing monitoring to ensure continuous improvement. A key feature of this system is the use of the “Daily Challenge” form, which facilitates documentation, accountability, and knowledge retention—helping to reduce the recurrence of similar situations. The case studies illustrate the methodology through two examples: a labeling issue involving the omission of quantity information on product labels due to operator oversight and the management of production downtime caused by equipment and sensor failures. Although a standard existed, the errors revealed the need for reinforced procedures. Corrective actions included revising procedures, retraining personnel, repairing and recalibrating equipment, enhancing maintenance protocols, and using visual documentation to enhance process understanding. The “Daily Challenge” tool provides a replicable framework for managing non-conformities across various industries, aligning operational practices with quality assurance goals. By integrating structured analysis, clear documentation, and corrective strategies, it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and compliance.

Suggested Citation

  • Mirel Glevitzky & Ioana Glevitzky & Paul Mucea-Ștef & Maria Popa, 2025. "The “Daily Challenge” Tool: A Practical Approach for Managing Non-Conformities in Industry," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-28, June.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5918-:d:1688771
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Italo Cesidio Fantozzi & Annalisa Santolamazza & Giancarlo Loy & Massimiliano Maria Schiraldi, 2025. "Digital Twins: Strategic Guide to Utilize Digital Twins to Improve Operational Efficiency in Industry 4.0," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 17(1), pages 1-16, January.
    2. Mirel Glevitzky & Ioana Glevitzky & Paul Mucea-Ștef & Maria Popa & Gabriela-Alina Dumitrel & Mihaela Laura Vică, 2025. "Integrated Risk Framework (IRF)—Interconnection of the Ishikawa Diagram with the Enhanced HACCP System in Risk Assessment for the Sustainable Food Industry," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-26, January.
    3. Hayford Asare Obeng & Richard Arhinful & Leviticus Mensah & Jerry Seth Owusu-Sarfo, 2024. "Assessing the Influence of the Knowledge Management Cycle on Job Satisfaction and Organizational Culture Considering the Interplay of Employee Engagement," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(20), pages 1-28, October.
    4. Tatiana Karkoszka, 2023. "Operational Control Model Based on Integrated Failure Analysis and Risk Assessment in Sustainable Technological Processes," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(24), pages 1-24, December.
    5. repec:rnp:artcls:dud14 is not listed on IDEAS
    6. David Jancsics & Salvador Espinosa & Jonathan Carlos, 2023. "Organizational noncompliance: an interdisciplinary review of social and organizational factors," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 73(3), pages 1273-1301, September.
    7. repec:rnp:ppaper:dud14 is not listed on IDEAS
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