Change control in manufacturing projects : application to stainless steel welding and pipeline systems
Kinnunen, Lydia (2025)
Kinnunen, Lydia
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060319926
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060319926
Tiivistelmä
This thesis aimed to examine the role and practices of change control in welding-based manufacturing industries. Change control is a critical component of successful project management, especially in sectors where quality, traceability, and regulatory compliance are essential, such as stainless steel fabrication and pipeline construction.
The research is based on a literature review and relevant standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 3834. Both the technical and organizational aspects of change control were explored, using Lewin’s 3-Stage Model and Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model. Combining these frameworks provided a comprehensive structure for understanding and managing changes.
The thesis also presents practical recommendations, including the adoption of digital tools (ERP, QMS), ongoing welder training, and risk-sharing contract models to better handle change under uncertainty.
The results highlight that effective change control requires a balanced approach, combining technical systems, human involvement, and well-defined processes, particularly in fast-moving and highly regulated manufacturing environments.
The research is based on a literature review and relevant standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 3834. Both the technical and organizational aspects of change control were explored, using Lewin’s 3-Stage Model and Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model. Combining these frameworks provided a comprehensive structure for understanding and managing changes.
The thesis also presents practical recommendations, including the adoption of digital tools (ERP, QMS), ongoing welder training, and risk-sharing contract models to better handle change under uncertainty.
The results highlight that effective change control requires a balanced approach, combining technical systems, human involvement, and well-defined processes, particularly in fast-moving and highly regulated manufacturing environments.