A Lean-Driven PDCA Approach for Quality Assurance Improvement in Luxury Footwear: The Case of Manufactures Dior S.r.l.

This thesis explores a Lean-driven approach to quality improvement within the luxury footwear industry, focusing on the case of Manufactures Dior S.r.l. After an extensive theoretical foundation covering Lean principles, waste elimination tools, and Total Quality Management, the study examines how Lean methods can be effectively integrated with artisanal manufacturing practices. The empirical section presents a quality improvement project based on the PDCA cycle. It begins with data collection and defect analysis, followed by a Pareto analysis to identify the most critical issue. Root cause analysis tools such as the Ishikawa diagram are then applied to uncover the underlying causes. Targeted corrective actions are implemented to address the problem at its source, ultimately leading to the standardization of the improved process. The case study demonstrates how Lean thinking, when carefully adapted, can enhance quality and operational consistency without compromising the craftsmanship, uniqueness, and symbolic value that define luxury products.