Applying QFD in the clothing manufacturing sector: a case study on improving a distance‐learning program in Hong Kong

This paper describes a project which uses the quality‐function‐deployment technique to improve a distance‐learning program, operated by a government training organization in Hong Kong, for junior staff in the clothing‐manufacturing industry. The scope of this study is twofold: it identifies 12 appropriate study modules for modifying the course content; and it identifies the kinds of supporting services which help students to study the course. An evaluation is made of the existing study modules and supporting services that are identified as successful. Suggestions are made regarding bridging the gap between importance and satisfaction for some of the important quality dimensions. The methodology attempts to translate customers’ voices into various design features of the products and services in order to prepare the course for continuous improvement.