International Journal of Production Research · 1997 · 171 citations · 0 references
ManagementQuality ManagementSupply Chain ManagementPerformance MeasurementSupply Chain Performance ManagementTotal Quality ManagementQuality LeadershipQuality StrategySupply Chain Performance MeasurementQuality Performance ManagementSupply Chain Performance ImprovementSupply Chain Performance IndicatorsSupply Chain Performance MetricsTotal Quality Management Leadership
Recent empirical studies of quality management have produced mixed findings regarding a significant positive relationship with performance. The study demonstrates that TQM practices are related to performance by combining nonlinear DEA and linear regression analyses. The authors analyze objective, third‑party quality performance data with nonlinear DEA and linear regression to assess TQM practices. This first study using third‑party objective quality data shows that certain TQM practices improve supply‑chain performance, encouraging manufacturers to continue promoting them.
Recent empirical studies of quality management have led to mixed findings regarding a significant positive relationship with performance. By combining nonlinear (DEA) and linear (regression) analyses, we demonstrate that TQM practices are related to performance. We establish this relationshp using objective (not self-reported) quality performance data. We believe that this is the first study to use objective quality data collected by a third party. Our findings should encourage manufacturers to continue promoting TQM practices throughout the supply chain; certain practices do lead to better performance.