A Theoretical Model for Implementing Quality Management in an Automated Environment

Abstract

This paper will present the results of a study which included the development of a quality management model, based on an extensive literature survey, and the empirical validation of the model. The study was designed to address two major research questions:1. What is a plausible model of the quality management process? Specifically, the study aimed to determine which quality management constructs should be included in a model of quality management. Additionally, the study identified or hypothesized, based on empirically developed models of quality management, a feasible set of relationships among the underlying constructs,2. Which of the hypothesized relationships included in the model were supported empirically by real world data? and A review of the literature provided the basis for the answers to both parts of question one. A model consisting of eight quality management practices, and five performance measures was developed. The literature review provided support for a proposed set of relationships among the thirteen constructs included in the quality management model. The proposed relationships formed the basis of a set of nine hypotheses tested in the study.A survey instrument was developed, from published indicators, to collect perceptual data about the utilization of quality management practices in companies and the perceived impact of these practices on performance measures. The survey instrument developed in this study included thirteen constructs and sixty-nine indicators. A six point Likert scale was used to score for each indicator, as this reduced responder bias. The scales developed for each of the constructs need had a reliability ranging from 0.62 to 0.9.The sample frame consisted of just fewer than 4000 companies from across the United States of America.Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the data collected from two hundred and ninety five respondents at organizations throughout the United States.The analysis indicates that the data supports twenty significant relationships postulated in the study’s hypotheses. These results shed light on the precise nature of the inter relationships among the quality management practices and manner in which these practices influence measures of organizational performance. The resulting model has utility for quality practitioners and researchers since it serves as an organizing framework for understanding the quality management process.The specific aspects of this research relevant to the automated manufacturing sector will be examined and presented. Additionally, the paper will present companies with an idea of how the various quality management practices interact to produce improved company performance.