University of Wisconsin–Madison

Center for Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM)

Established in 1993, the Center for Quick Response Manufacturing is a collaborative partnership between industry and the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Interdisciplinary Professional Programs (InterPro).

Our mission is to advance the principles of Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) by helping organizations translate proven concepts into practical solutions that improve responsiveness, reduce lead times, and strengthen organizational performance.The Center provides applied education and professional development in the principles and implementation of Quick Response Manufacturing. We offer learning opportunities in a variety of formats, including live online courses, in-person workshops, on-site education, consulting engagements, and custom programs tailored to specific operational challenges. Our goal is to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed to successfully implement QRM strategies and achieve sustainable performance improvements.Since its founding, organizations of all sizes and across a wide range of industries have successfully applied QRM principles to improve their operations. The Center continues to serve as a community for organizations committed to reducing lead times and improving responsiveness through education, collaboration, and the exchange of proven practices. Members gain access to educational opportunities, networking, working group meetings, webinars, plant tours, and other activities designed to accelerate learning and continuous improvement.

Member Benefits

As a member of the Center for Quick Response Manufacturing, your company will receive the following benefits:
  • Reduced Training Costs: Individuals who register for the Manufacturing Excellence Certificate receive a 10% discount on eligible Manufacturing Excellence Certificate courses. There is no cost to register for the certificate.
  • Exclusive Members-Only Events: Participate in working group meetings, plant tours, webinars, and other unique events designed to share insights and foster collaboration.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with representatives from other member companies to learn how they have successfully addressed common QRM challenges.

Upcoming Courses

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Membership Details

Membership is free and open to all organizations interested in QRM. Sign up to be added to our member company mailing list to receive access to QRM updates, member events, and training opportunities.Companies may continue to support the Center through donations made via the UW Foundation. Please contact us if this is of interest.Click here to become a member company

Manufacturing Excellence Certificate

Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) is an integral component of the Manufacturing Excellence Certificate. The certificate combines QRM principles with complementary competencies in operational excellence, manufacturing systems, technical leadership, data analytics, continuous improvement, and decision-making to prepare professionals to improve manufacturing performance across a wide range of production environments.Participants interested in deepening their expertise in lead time reduction and time-based competitiveness can complete QRM Foundation: Implementing QRM for Time-Based Competitiveness as part of the Manufacturing Excellence Certificate. The course integrates QRM principles with a broader set of manufacturing methodologies and leadership practices to improve organizational performance.The Manufacturing Excellence Certificate provides a comprehensive professional credential for manufacturing professionals seeking to improve organizational performance by integrating Quick Response Manufacturing with complementary manufacturing methodologies.Learn more about the Manufacturing Excellence Certificate.