Can a TQM initiative really fail? The primary aim of the article is to convey a more astute understanding of the very essence of TQM. It shows how the TQM philosophy is founded in common sense, and why the infusion of TQM in any organization should result only in a win‐win situation. While...

In a manufacturing environment, the 5Ss in practice can result in considerable improvements in environmental performance in parallel with improved housekeeping and health and safety. The 5Ss in theory are a set of straightforward steps to continual improvement. In practice implementation of the...

Total quality management (TQM) is still a new issue for the organisations in Yemen. These organisations need to establish a new strategy towards quality management. Focuses on the difficulties and barriers to the introduction and implementation of TQM in such a culture. The researcher draws on...

The purpose of the study reported in this article has been to explore and describe the influence of some national cultures on the way quality management is practised. Case studies have been carried out in the UK, Germany, France and Italy. Some differences in focus have been found. These are...

Profiles a Hungarian company which produces electric lighting equipment, and examines the ways in which it has escaped the constraints of its cultural background by implementing TQM tools and techniques. Shows how the emphasis placed on quality, Customer service and cost reduction, together with...

Reports on the adoption of total quality methods by RNAY Fleetland, a company which undertakes repair and maintenance of military helicopters, and which had to contend with the hurdle of taking the two cultures, military and civilian, within the business and turning them into a quality culture....

Describes the efforts made by Newcastle Breweries to improve its competitiveness by implementing TQM and therefore achieving superior customer satisfaction. Follows the company through its introduction of a “quality customer package” outlining the range of services available to the customer;...

States that efficient communication of the TQM message is essential if a programme is to be implemented successfully. Underlines the need to tailor communications messages according to who they are directed at, especially employees, and suggests that quality managers work together with public...

Explains the decision of Ulster Carpets to choose “total customer satisfaction” (TCS) over traditional “total quality management”, in order to involve the entire workforce in their quality programme. Details the company′s use of awareness sessions and Training to involve employees, as...