TQM in Australian manufacturing: factors critical to success

Abstract

Discusses the trends in the adoption of quality management practices in the Australian manufacturing industry and highlights some of the barriers to the adoption of such practices. Furthermore, the paper discusses the factors that are considered to be critical to the adoption of TQM in Australian manufacturing. The longitudinal quantitative and qualitative results show that TQM is largely implemented in the manufacturing/operations function with little progress in other functional areas. Overall, the popularity of TQM, ISO 9000 certification, statistical process control and quality circles has diminished. The obstacles to the adoption of quality management practices point to the short‐term vision of Australian managers and the misconception concerning the costs and benefits associated with a TQM programme. Based on the results of surveys and the case study research, numerous factors critical to success are identified. Concludes that there is no single best approach to implementing the TQM philosophy. An approach unique to the needs and culture of the organization must be developed.

Citation

Sohal, A.S. and Terziovski, M. (2000), "TQM in Australian manufacturing: factors critical to success", International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 158-168. https://doi.org/10.1108/02656710010304564