Statistical control charts are graphical tools used to monitor the performance of a process over time. They display data points collected from a process and help identify variations that may indicate problems. By establishing upper and lower control limits, these charts allow users to determine whether a process is stable or if corrective actions are needed. These charts are commonly used in quality control and are associated with W. Edwards Deming, a key figure in quality management. They help organizations maintain consistent quality by distinguishing between common cause variation, which is inherent to the process, and special cause variation, which requires investigation.