This paper is based on an empirical study of TQM implementation in the Malaysian industrial context. The main focus of the study was to identify quality factors for effective TQM implementation, which are critical for TQM to flourish in Malaysian industries, and to understand the dynamics of TQM...

Research carried out to develop and advance the application of design and process failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) at Garrett Automotive Ltd, Skelmersdale, is described. The work has been undertaken under the umbrella of the UMIST Total Quality Management Multi‐company Teaching...

Plots a path from a base of ISO 9000 series system registration to the effective use of self‐assessment against the criteria of an excellence model (e.g. the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) model or the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) model). Both the ISO 9000...

This paper examines two research questions. First, is a re‐engineered company a suitable platform for the subsequent application of TQM principles? Second, is BPR an appropriate means to transform an organisation operating along traditional lines into one which is managed using TQM principles?...

Reports the main findings of a study carried out into the quality improvement structure of six different companies. Among the findings is that an infrastructure in terms of TQM Steering Committee and improvements facilitators is necessary at the introduction and during the development stages of...

Outlines the establishment of Trafford Park Development Corporation and the subsequent setting up and development of the Trafford Park Performance and Quality Forum. The forum aims to benefit all companies by creating a more robust Trafford Park which will ideally safeguard the vast amount of...

Outlines the main findings of a longitudinal study into the use and application of quality management tools and techniques in a speciality chemicals manufacturer. Finds that the use of a particular tool or technique is related to the stage of development of the organization’s improvement...

From both fieldwork and the academic literature a number of issues have been identified which impact negatively on the sustaining of TQM in manufacturing organizations. The issues reflect a variety of business operations perspectives including continuous improvement, organizational behaviour,...

Describes six levels of TQM adoption (or lack of it) which are termed uncommitted, drifters, tool pushers, improvers, award winners and world‐class. The levels are not necessarily the stages which organizations pass on their TQM journey, rather they are characteristics and behaviour which...

This paper outlines the key events and changes which have resulted in the transformation of the RHP Bearings Blackburn foundry from potential closure to a successful business unit within the NSK‐RHP European operation. It deals with aspects such as people development, policy deployment,...