Starting in the early 1980's, US manufacturers implemented Just-
in-Time (JiT) and Six Sigma data-driven strategies. One of
methods employed was named Quality Circles. Professional
Learning Communities, PLC's, can be considered variations of
Quality Circles. Analogously to a Quality Circle, a PLC focuses
a school on identifying problems and responding to (student)
needs quickly by using data and teams. Furthermore, the twin
overarching goals of JiT are reducing cost and increasing
responsiveness by eliminating waste - waste of time, waste of
effort, and the waste of resources and materials. In short,
distractions and disruptions kill profit and responsiveness. The
overarching goal for schools is student learning. All activities
that detract from this goal are waste. It should be realized
that Quality Circles have a exceptionally high failure rate in
business. They need a sustained level of support and guidance.
PLC's are no different. Lack of Real Support is a Reason for
Failure While most Quality Circles fail