TQM in Australia: Factors Critical to Success

Based on the results of three questionnaire surveys and a number of case studies, this paper discusses the status of Total Quality Management in Australian businesses. The results show that TQM is still largely implemented in the manufacturing/operations function with little progress in other functional areas. Overall, the popularity for TQM, 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 costs and benefits of TQM. The paper highlights the factors which influence the adoption of quality management practices and presents a profile of a TQM organization