A proposed framework for implementing TQM in Chinese organizations

Citation

Cousins, M. (2002), "A proposed framework for implementing TQM in Chinese organizations", Measuring Business Excellence, Vol. 6 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/mbe.2002.26706baf.003

A proposed framework for implementing TQM in Chinese organizations

A proposed framework for implementing TQM in Chinese organizations

K.-S. Chin and K.-F. Pun, International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management, Vol. 19 No. 3, 2002

Discusses various research into total quality management implementation (TQM). Touches on associated issues in relation to Chinese culture. Tables the 28 elements of the non-prescriptive TQM implementation framework developed by UMIST in the 1980s (UMIST-TQM) that draws from TQM approaches mentioned. Takes a Hong Kong focus in explicating a five-level scoring system aligning with the UMIST-TQM elements, which characterizes firms regarding their organizational state prior to TQM implementation, i.e. unaware, uncommitted, initiator, improver, achiever. Appends a 22-step guideline for TQM implementation, depicting its associated flow chart. Describes development of a localized Hong Kong UMIST-TQM framework via a research project initiated in 1998 that concluded with evaluation of the framework and guidelines by a TQM implementation pilot involving six Chinese firms. Gives their descriptive statistics, describes their organizational states at the start of TQM, and recounts progress made. Concludes with pointers specific to TQM implementation in Chinese companies and benefits from adopting the framework.

Comment: This case study is of use for anyone considering TQM implementation. It contains much practical advice and poses some interesting questions for future research.