Improving Quality Management Systems Research Articles

Benefits and limitations of implementing the ISO 9004:2018 standard

Purpose: The paper's main objective is to indicate the current state of knowledge regarding the results of implementing the ISO 9004:2018 standard, with a particular focus on identifying the potential benefits and limitations of its implementation. The study is in line with the research stream on improving quality management systems and striving for sustainable market success. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is based on a narrative literature review through analysis of the publications available in scientific databases. It was then combined with the method of scientific reflection. Findings: The paper highlights the opportunities that the implementation of the ISO 9004:2018 standard and its integrated self-assessment model offer to organisations. The analysis also revealed limitations associated with the implementation of the standard's recommendations. Practical implications: The research contributes to the development of knowledge in the practical application of the standard and the self-assessment model. It can serve as a reference point for practitioners and scholars interested in the aforementioned subject matter. Originality/value: The originality of the paper lies in its comprehensive analysis of the requirements of the ISO 9004:2018 standard, addressing significant issues both for the academic environment and practitioners in the field of quality management. The study highlights the benefits of applying the self-assessment model, and outlines the challenges associated with its implementation. Keywords: ISO 9004:2018 standard, self-assessment model, quality improvement, sustainable success. Category of the paper: Literature review.

The personnel policy in health care institutions in the light of tasks of provision of medical care quality and medical activity safety

The personnel plays important role in process of maintaining internal quality control and safety of medical care. The employee satisfaction with working conditions is main factor affecting professional development and competence enhancement and consequently quality of medical care. The purpose of the study is to analyze particular personnel policies of the institution and to investigate effectiveness of quality management system regarding health care services. Results. The institution implemented the model of quality management system (ISO 9001-2015) assigning significant role to proper personnel management. The sociological survey was carried out to analyze achieved results and to receive feedback from employees to improve quality management system. The results of sociological survey indicate that the most important targets of personnel policies for 65% of respondents are planning, forecasting skill, competency requirements; for 58% - organization of conditions improving effectiveness of employees; and for 51,7% - maintaining favorable team moral and psychological climate. The employees consider as preferable following ways of professional development: additional training, specialized training programs (78.5%), exchange of experience and communication between Russian and foreign colleagues (51.0%). The analysis established that 61.8% of employees of the institution assume mentoring programs would improve efficiency of new employees. Conclusions. The results of the study revealed that personnel policy of the institution can be improved through implementing particular policies regarding development of employee personal additional competency; of mentoring programs and motivation systems for employees; evaluation of employee individual contribution into achieving the goals of the institution and forming personnel reserve.

Integration of Quality Management Systems in a Rural, Low-Resource Environment: The Experience at Phebe Hospital in Bong County, Liberia

Laboratory strengthening programs have been limited to clinical testing for prioritized diseases such as Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), Lassa Fever, COVID-19, Multidrug Resistant Tuberculosis, Malaria, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). While patient outcomes are key concerns, limited efforts have been directed at improving Quality Management Systems (QMS). The benefits of QMS are correlated to improved patient care in resource-limited settings. This article examines the ability of a laboratory in a low-resource setting to integrate QMS into clinical care, describes its challenges, and measures its benefits on improved treatment outcomes. Gap analysis was conducted to implement QMS at Phebe Hospital, Bongo county, Liberia. We prioritized the framework of workflow processes and reorganization, equipment and inventory management, and documentation as challenges hampering the effective implementation of QMS. As a stepwise intervention strategy, laboratory workflow and infrastructure were remodeled, staff retrained, partners managed, and system changes were communicated to strengthen the laboratory systems. Improvement in communicating goals to clinicians, following work plans, managing staff time, delegating responsibilities, allocating resources, and strategically managing the presence of multiple partners as effective strategies to improve QMS were observed. We demonstrated that improving QMS strengthens the laboratory systems at Phebe Hospital. To sustain such initiative, Phebe Hospital must focus efforts on building sustainable laboratory systems and structures. We propose future studies to evaluate the short- and long-term benefits of such interventions.

Prediction of defects using machine learning techniques in order to improve quality management system – A case study

According to ISO 9000, a quality management system is part of a set of related or interacting elements of an organization that sets policies and objectives, as well as the processes necessary to achieve the quality objectives. Quality is the extent to which a set of intrinsic characteristics of an object meets the requirements. Based on these definitions, the factory, considered in this paper, S.C. APULUM S.A.,decided to implement a quality management system since 1998. Subsequently, the organization’s attention is focus on the continuous improvement of the implemented quality management system. The purpose of this paper is to study the percent of specified defects specific to ceramic products in the future to improve the quality management system. In this regard, machine learning techniques were applied for defects forecasting for different types of products: mugs, pressed plates and jiggered plates. The experimental evaluation was performed on real data sets that contain percentages about different types of defects collected in 2018-2019. The experimental results show that for each type of product exists an algorithm that forecasts the future defects.

Optimization modeling of business processes of engineering service enterprises in the national economy

Purpose. Construction of an economic and mathematical model of the optimal organization of a system of business processes and its testing at an enterprise in the field of engineering services. Methodology. Methods of analysis and synthesis, systematization, theoretical generalization are used to study approaches to optimizing business processes of enterprises; modeling to create an economic and mathematical model of the optimal organization of the system of business processes; approbation of the developed model at an enterprise in the field of engineering services. Findings. The article proves the need to assess the impact of various economic factors on the financial results of economic activities of enterprises and the construction of business systems of enterprises, economic and mathematical models for their optimization. It has been determined that business process modeling is an effective means of improving quality management systems in accordance with the requirements of the international standard ISO 9001:2015, determining, identifying and minimizing the risks of enterprises, ensuring their successful activities in general. An economic and mathematical model has been developed for the optimal organization of the system of business processes of an enterprise as a means of maximizing the total profit from the implementation of works and services. Originality. An economic and mathematical model of the optimal organization of the system of business processes of enterprises in the field of engineering services has been built as an effective tool for improving their quality management systems and activities in general. Practical value. The use of the constructed economic and mathematical model of the optimal organization of the system of business processes of enterprises in the field of engineering services will provide the management team with important information for making management decisions aimed at improving quality management systems, achieving key business goals and maximizing profits.

A Roundtable Discussion: Improving Quality Management Systems: Short-Term Pain for Long-Term Gain.

A Roundtable Discussion: Improving Quality Management Systems: Short-Term Pain for Long-Term Gain.

Motivational Factors for the Implementation of ISO-9001 in Construction Firms of Pakistan

Motivating public and private construction firms to implement various management systems in their firms is not a simple job. Especially in Pakistan, management system is a new practice, most of the construction firms are not aware about the benefits of management system and what will be achieved after the implementation of management system. The implementation of ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) in the construction industry is a continuing development method, particularly in small construction firms. On the other hand, the awareness level and readiness level of construction industry firms in Pakistan is yet very low as associated to other countries of Asia and Europe where ISO 9001 initiated. The purpose current study is to determine most responsible factors which will motivate the public and private construction firms of Pakistan to adopt the QMS (ISO 9001). A questionnaire survey was conducted and a total of 337 out of 553 questionnaires were received from public and private construction firms of AZBAGIKHPUSI areas. The analysis results depict 3 significant factors, which will motivate construction firms of Pakistan to implement ISO 9001 are (1) to qualify for bidding (2) to improve quality management system of company (3) to reduce wastage. Hence, based on these results and findings, the construction companies require ISO 9001 certification system and registration with Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) as a constitution passed for the construction firms then to qualify for the bidding.

Risk-oriented Oversight (Supervision) Over Activities of Medical Organizations and Prospects for Application of Risk Assessment in Osteopathy

The article explores the issues in applying state risk-oriented oversight (supervision) approach over the activity of business entities and individuals providing medical services, including those of osteopathic medicine. The authors describe the models used by the Russian Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare and Social Development (Roszdravnadzor) and the Russian Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Wellbeing (Rospotrebnadzor). The article defi nes the goals of the Russian Osteopathic Association to improve quality management system and risk assessment system. The study examines the laws and legislations of the Ministry of Health of the Russian federation, and research papers. The authors use different research methods: method of scientifi c hypothetico-deductive cognition, general logic methods and methods of research - analysis, synthesis, abstraction, generalization, induction.

Management of educational services provision in Ukraine’s higher institutions

The article considers the key issues of modernizing quality management systems and ways to address problems related to developing, updating and improving quality management systems for providing educational services by higher institutions of Ukraine.Theoretical aspects associated with management of educational services provision in higher institutions of Ukraine are discussed.It is found that public administration should be based on mechanisms and incentives that will affect the performance of higher institutions, force them to improve the quality of educational services and bear responsibility for their activities.It is proved that in the context of reforming higher education, the quality of management is of vital importance as a factor of systems organization of the university, which ensures its success, competitiveness, and preconditions for its development. A well-judged analysis of the environment of higher institutions and an impartial assessment of their activities allow university authorities to make the best possible choice towards developing universities in a market-driven economy.Using the PDCA methodology will be positively related to a series of measures to improve quality management for provision educational services by higher institutions. The PDCA methodology acts as an algorithm for decisions made by the head of the university aimed at managing the whole process and achieving goals.

Specimen origin, type and testing laboratory are linked to longer turnaround times for HIV viral load testing in Malawi.

BackgroundEfforts to reach UNAIDS’ treatment and viral suppression targets have increased demand for viral load (VL) testing and strained existing laboratory networks, affecting turnaround time. Longer VL turnaround times delay both initiation of formal adherence counseling and switches to second-line therapy for persons failing treatment and contribute to poorer health outcomes.MethodsWe utilized descriptive statistics and logistic regression to analyze VL testing data collected in Malawi between January 2013 and March 2016. The primary outcomes assessed were greater-than-median pretest phase turnaround time (days elapsed from specimen collection to receipt at the laboratory) and greater-than-median test phase turnaround time (days from receipt to testing).ResultsThe median number of days between specimen collection and testing increased 3-fold between 2013 (8 days, interquartile range (IQR) = 6–16) and 2015 (24, IQR = 13–39) (p<0.001). Multivariable analysis indicated that the odds of longer pretest phase turnaround time were significantly higher for specimen collection districts without laboratories capable of conducting viral load tests (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 5.16; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.04–5.27) as well as for Malawi’s Northern and Southern regions. Longer test phase turnaround time was significantly associated with use of dried blood spots instead of plasma (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI = 2.23–2.37) and for certain testing months and testing laboratories.ConclusionIncreased turnaround time for VL testing appeared to be driven in part by categorical factors specific to the phase of turnaround time assessed. Given the implications of longer turnaround time and the global effort to scale up VL testing, addressing these factors via increasing efficiencies, improving quality management systems and generally strengthening the VL spectrum should be considered essential components of controlling the HIV epidemic.

К вопросу об использовании статистического инструментария для оценки качества образования

The article discusses the problems associated with the management of the quality of education, it is shown that quality management education is impossible without reliance on proven statistical tools. The authors analyze the characteristics of quality management education and show that an integral element of the management of this process is the correct setting goals, having the operational and prediction properties in the zone of potential development of the student. The authors identify and justify the need for the provision of a system of indicators that allow determining the degree of achievement of objectives in the educational system. They analyze the classification of indicators from the point of view of education quality assessment identified a normative and comparative nature of the assessment indicators, the role and place of statistics in the evaluation of the quality of the educational process. Based on the conducted research the authors propose the method of using this statistical tool, as Shewhart charts, and to assess the implementation of the educational process and/or results and decision on the need for corrective actions. The article gives the definition of Shewhart charts, and describes the purpose of this instrument, marked the boundaries of its application, the analysis of varieties of charts, with the main features and the estimated values, the technique of their construction. Particular value is an example of using Shewhart charts to assess the quality of student performance, which demonstrates the role of this statistical tool in deciding the stability of the educational process or the need for corrective actions, i.e. external intervention in the process. The article may be interesting for practitioners in the course of training courses on the subject and in the process of improving quality management systems in educational institutions.

Identification of barriers to improving quality management systems

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report the results of a survey on quality management systems (QMS)-related problems faced by management representatives. Design/methodology/approach – The survey was carried out on certified organisations by means of a self-administrated questionnaire. A total of 97 organisations participated in the study. Findings – It was found that the majority of management representatives believe themselves to be well aware of the weaknesses in their respective organisations and of the underlying causes. They also maintain that they know how to overcome them. They perceive insufficient involvement on the part of managers and staff and limited resources as being far more crucial problems. Research limitations/implications – The sample only covers 97 organisations, so including more entities would be strongly recommended in any future research. This would enable grouping by general characteristics, such as businesses and public administration, for instance, and allow a comparative analysis to be conducted. Furthermore, as the data in this study were collected from management representatives and are based on their subjective evaluations, they should be set in the perspective of other viewpoints, for example those of top management and internal auditors. Practical implications – The survey data make it possible to identify the personal traits and competences required for the role of management representative. An analysis of the problems identified by means of the survey indicates that those competences should fall within the areas of internal communication, motivation and so forth. Originality/value – ISO 9001 pays little attention to the competences and role of a management representative. Empirical research on the subject is also lacking. The survey results and their analysis presented here contribute towards a better understanding of the sources of success or failure in implementing, maintaining and improving a QMS.

Optimization and quality improvement of critical value report procedures in emergency room laboratories

Critical value report procedures need to be improved rationally by urban space saving, post setting, and monitoring and analysis of historical data of critical value. Laboratory is required to develop and put into practice critical value policies and procedures by numerous regulatory agency standards, such as, International Standard Organization (ISO 15189), College of American Pathologists. Laboratories should implement and continuously improve quality management system for achieving the quality goals set by Laboratory and International Standard Organization.(Chin J Lab Med, 2015, 38: 431-432) Key words: Emergency service, hospital; Clinical laboratory information systems

Improving Quality Management Systems of Laboratories in Developing Countries

The Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) program was developed to promote immediate, measurable improvement in laboratories of developing countries. The laboratory management framework, a tool that prescribes managerial job tasks, forms the basis of the hands-on, activity-based curriculum. SLMTA is implemented through multiple workshops with intervening site visits to support improvement projects. To evaluate the effectiveness of SLMTA, the laboratory accreditation checklist was developed and subsequently adopted by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO). The SLMTA program and the implementation model were validated through a pilot in Uganda. SLMTA yielded observable, measurable results in the laboratories and improved patient flow and turnaround time in a laboratory simulation. The laboratory staff members were empowered to improve their own laboratories by using existing resources, communicate with clinicians and hospital administrators, and advocate for system strengthening. The SLMTA program supports laboratories by improving management and building preparedness for accreditation.

An adaptation to ISO 9001:2000 for certified organisations

On 15 December 2000, the International Organisation for Standardisation published a new series of ISO 9000 standards. There are significant changes in this third edition standard. Several specific surveys and analysis revealed the key concerned areas of the certified companies and the significant changes in the new standard are on the key system areas. Develops a new model explicatory to assist those certified organisations to link their concerned areas with that of the new standard. In this model, management activity is the key element. The information can be used in the analysis to determine the areas for continual improvement. Reveals that top management are still weak in the adoption of quality management systems, establishment and implementation of the quality policy and objectives. Recommends use of SMART approach. At the same time, certified organisations spend a lot of effort for the compliance with the process approach management. Discusses the benefits of using process approach management. Besides the plan‐do‐check‐act approach in continuous improvement, introduces the Xerox Management Model. Finally, introduces the consideration of improving quality management systems in areas of effectiveness, efficiency, productivity, flexibility and adaptability, rather than product.