MC Magazine

And the Survey Says…

Last fall, NPCA conducted a satisfaction survey of all NPCA certified plants regarding the certification program. Of the 217 contacts invited to take the survey, 51 responded. Below is a summary of the results:

• 43 percent of the respondents are participating in the program voluntarily, while only 7 percent stated they were required to hold certification by a local agency. The remaining respondents entered the program voluntarily, and then at some point a local agency implemented a requirement for certification.
• 82 percent gave the program an “Excellent” or “Good” rating, and 84 percent gave the Quality Control Manual these ratings.
• 94 percent of plants stated the program has been beneficial to them.
• There was a broad mix of products manufactured by the responding companies, with the products and percentages listed below:
• Manholes – 90 percent
• Box culverts – 55 percent
• Septic Tanks – 47 percent
• Architectural products – 31 percent
• Concrete pipe – 20 percent
• Prestressed products – 10 percent
• Plants were asked if they had recognized financial benefit from certification in a number of areas. Listed below are the percentages of plants responding affirmatively in these ways:
  • Reduced rejects and field repairs – 54 percent
  • Improved efficiency and production practices – 44 percent
  • Increased business (referrals, new business, etc.) – 38 percent
  • Employee morale and retention – 25 percent

The detailed survey results are posted on the Quality Assurance Committee page in the Members Only section of the NPCA Web site. Contact NPCA online or call (800) 366-7731 to inquire about the NPCA Plant Certification Program.

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