Showing papers in "International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management in 2010"
TL;DR: In this paper, the integration of lean principles with Six Sigma methodology as a coherent approach to continuous improvement is examined, and a conceptual model for their successful integration is provided. But, although research has been undertaken on the implementation of lean within various industries, the many tools and techniques that form the “tool box”, and its integration with six Sigma (mainly through case studies and action research), there has been little written on the journey towards integration of the two approaches.
Abstract: Purpose – Although research has been undertaken on the implementation of lean within various industries, the many tools and techniques that form the “tool box”, and its integration with Six Sigma (mainly through case studies and action research), there has been little written on the journey towards the integration of the two approaches. This paper aims to examine the integration of lean principles with Six Sigma methodology as a coherent approach to continuous improvement, and provides a conceptual model for their successful integration.Design/methodology/approach – Desk research and a literature review of each separate approach is provided, followed by a view of the literature of the integrated approach.Findings – No standard framework for lean Six Sigma or its implementation exists. A systematic approach needs to be adopted, which optimises systems as a whole, focusing the right strategies in the correct places.Originality/value – This paper contributes to knowledge by providing an insight into the evol...
500 citations
TL;DR: The literature on Six Sigma from 417 referred journal articles from 1992 to 2008 were systematically analyzed based on a scheme that consists of four distinct dimensions: publication year and journal, major themes, research type, and application sector as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to clarify emerging aspects and trends of Six Sigma literature over 17 years, from 1992 to 2008Design/methodology/approach – The literature on Six Sigma from 417 referred journal articles in business and management disciplines, information systems and computer science, engineering, healthcare, etc were systematically analyzed based on a scheme that consists of four distinct dimensions: publication year and journal, major themes, research type, and application sector (ie manufacturing vs service)Findings – A number of key findings emerged: Six Sigma research is growing rapidly, covering various disciplines and domains with a great focus on Six Sigma tools and techniques; empirical research is dominant with more emphasis on case study approach; and the growing gap between manufacturing‐ and service‐focused articles implies the return of Six Sigma to manufacturing as its initial base Although a large volume of literature is available on Six Sigma, the topic is still under deve
241 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a novel approach is developed to measure and quantify the relationships between customer satisfaction and the fulfillment of customer requirements (S•CR) as depicted in Kano's model, and a case study concerning notebook computer design is conducted to illustrate the application of the proposed approach.
Abstract: Purpose – The paper aims to help companies develop a better understanding of customer needs through quantitative analysis of Kano's model.Design/methodology/approach – A novel approach is developed to measure and quantify the relationships between customer satisfaction and the fulfillment of customer requirements (S‐CR) as depicted in Kano's model. A case study concerning notebook computer design is conducted to illustrate the application of the proposed approach.Findings – By implementing the proposed approach, S‐CR relationship functions have been identified from Kano's model to illustrate the impact of different customer requirements on customer satisfaction. The case study demonstrates that the proposed approach can be implemented successfully.Research limitations/implications – In order to identify the S‐CR relationship functions, several assumptions have been made in determining the shape of relationship curves in Kano's model. Future work could focus on improving the assumptions to derive the relat...
175 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the differences in the service quality between two types of banks, namely conventional and Islamic, in terms of common critical factors after re-examining the SERVQUAL model, originally pioneered by Parasuraman.
Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to find the differences in the service quality (if any) between two types of banks, namely conventional and Islamic, in terms of common critical factors after re‐examining the SERVQUAL model, originally pioneered by Parasuraman Further, the technique of dominance analysis is used to examine the relative importance of the critical factors in closing up the overall service quality gap in these two types of banksDesign/methodology/approach – The sample is made up of 308 bank customers, consisting of the customers from both Islamic and conventional banks from different parts of Malaysia The data have been collected by using the structured questionnaire, which consists of three parts Part 1 deals with consumers' usage of banking channels and their banking behaviour Part 2 contains 26 statements related to service quality dimensions based on past literature Finally, Part 3 contains the questions related to the socio‐demographic profiles of respondentsFindings – The modified SERV
163 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a survey was used to evaluate customer perceptions of the service quality in fast-food restaurants (FFRs) in China, and a modified SERVPERF scale was proposed to assess the potential antecedents of customer satisfaction in the fast food industry.
Abstract: – The objective of this study is to modify the SERVPERF scale by incorporating the additional dimension of recoverability, and to empirically test and refine the modified SERVPERF instrument using survey data from China. The study aims to assess the potential antecedents of customer satisfaction in the fast food industry in China. The antecedents include service quality, food quality, and perceived value. Finally, it seeks to examine the relationship between behavioral intentions and customer satisfaction in the fast food industry in mainland China., – A survey was used to evaluate customer perceptions of the service quality in fast‐food restaurants (FFRs). Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to assess the reliability and validity of the modified Chinese FFR SERVPERF instrument. Structural equation modeling was employed to assess the hypothesized relationships., – Reliability, recoverability, tangibles, and responsiveness were all significant dimensions of perceived service quality. Food quality, perceived value and service quality all had a direct and positive relationship with satisfaction, which in turn influenced behavioral intentions., – Western‐style fast food franchises are increasingly crossing national boundaries and looking for growth among customers in China. China is becoming a major player in the global market because of its size and growth potential, particularly after its accession to the World Trade Organization. The transference of a western business model is not appropriate in the context of China without testing because of dietary and cultural differences. The study modified the SERVPERF instrument and empirically validated the instrument using data from China. The results contribute to the understanding of service quality in China's fast food industry and provide insight about service management and improvement opportunities in Chinese service operations.
122 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explored the relationship between 5S use, contextual factors and performance in Spanish manufacturing plants and found a positive relationship between the use of 5S and some contextual factors such as size, the integration of the plant in a multinational group, the type of product manufactured, the technology used and the quality programmes in the plant.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between 5S use, contextual factors and performance. The contextual factors comprise structural features of the firm, environment, human resources and technology and quality management. The performance measures refer to improvements in productivity, quality, employee satisfaction, lead time and new product design.Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire survey was conducted in 203 Spanish manufacturing plants, with personnel interviewees. The hypotheses proposed were verified using correlation analysis and analysis of variance.Findings – The results show the existence of a positive relationship between the use of 5S and some contextual factors such as size, the integration of the plant in a multinational group, the type of product manufactured, the technology used and the quality programmes in the plant. Moreover, 5S is positively related to some operational performance measures, especially those referring to quality and productivity.O...
117 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identify and classify potential and verified benefits of implementing quality management systems (QMSs) according to ISO 9000 standards, based on a comprehensive review of the relevant literature, mostly articles relating to implementation of the ISO 9000 QMS and its impact on customer satisfaction and business performance.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify and classify potential and verified benefits of implementing quality management systems (QMSs) according to ISO 9000 standards.Design/methodology/approach – The research is based on a comprehensive review of the relevant literature, mostly articles relating to implementation of the ISO 9000 QMS and its impact on customer satisfaction and business performance.Findings – The literature adduces possible benefits of the effective implementation of the ISO 9000 QMS and searches for related support in published empirical research. The paper classifies the major identified and empirically verified benefits into four groups in relation to the balanced scorecard (BSC) approach to categorising company objectives. It also relates the potential benefits to specific standard requirements and the pre‐conditions that must be met in the implementation stage of the ISO 9001 in order to attain these benefits.Research limitations/implications – This study of the benefits ha...
113 citations
TL;DR: In this article, an integrative literature review methodology was used to explore the diversity of studies being conducted concerning the EFQM model and suggest a future research agenda, which will be helpful to enhance both the quality and volume of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) model studies.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of the research topics and methodologies used in the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) Business Excellence Model studies, as well as to suggest a future research agenda.Design/methodology/approach – An integrative literature review methodology was used to explore the diversity of studies being conducted concerning the EFQM model.Findings – Results of the review indicate that the majority of papers are focused on too few research topics (e.g. performance measurement) with limited methodologies (e.g. case study).Research limitations/implications – The paper enables researchers and practitioners to recognize the missing avenues of current studies and how these avenues could be improved. It provides ideas to stimulate researchers to take divergent and multiple methodological facts. It will be helpful to enhance both the quality and volume of the EFQM model studies.Originality/value – This paper identifies the current status of the EF...
108 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present an in-depth review of the fundamental concept of quality function deployment and discuss the facts that the road to success for new product development is the identification of customers' requirements and their conversion into engineering design requirements.
Abstract: Purpose – The author aims to review the fundamental concept of quality function deployment and to discuss the facts that the road to success for new product development is the identification of customers' requirements and their conversion into engineering design requirements. Thereafter, the author seeks to present an in‐depth review of the subject and to study five new cases on the topic of quality function deployment.Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses the key elements of quality function deployment and the fact that the vision for the development of a comprehensive quality system can be built on the principles of quality function deployment taking customer requirements into consideration and relating them to design requirements.Findings – To make the product development task successful and bring competitive advantages to the core business, management must be committed to the needs of customers through marketing surveys and implementing these in the process of product development by conver...
97 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigate the relationship between overall equipment effectiveness and process capability, how they interact and impact each other, and the possible effect that this relationship may have on decision making.
Abstract: Purpose – Overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and process capability (PC) are commonly used and well‐accepted measures of performance in industry. These measures, however, are traditionally applied separately and with different purposes. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between OEE and PC, how they interact and impact each other, and the possible effect that this relationship may have on decision making.Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews the OEE and PC background. Then, a discrete‐event simulation model of a bottling line is developed. Using the model, a set of experiments are run and the results interpreted using graphical trend and impact analyses.Findings – The paper demonstrates the relationship between OEE and PC and suggests the existence of a “cut‐off point” beyond which improvements in PC have little impact on OEE.Practical implications – PC uses the capability indices (CI) to help in determining the suitability of a process to meet the required quality s...
91 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a modified Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) approach is presented to enhance the reliability of Lean systems. But, it does not address the impact of failure modes on the overall performance of the system.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to encourage the integration of Lean principles with reliability models to sustain Lean efforts on a long‐term basis. It seeks to present a modified FMEA that will allow Lean practitioners to understand and improve the reliability of Lean systems. The modified FMEA approach is developed based on the four critical resources required to sustain Lean systems: personnel, equipment, materials, and schedules.Design/methodology/approach – A three‐phased methodology approach is presented to enhance the reliability of Lean systems. The first phase compares actual business and operational conditions with conditions assumed in Lean implementation. The second phase maps potential deviations of business and operational conditions to their root cause. The third phase utilizes a modified Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to prioritize issues that the organization must address.Findings – A literature search shows that practical methodologies to improve the reliability of Lean...
TL;DR: In this article, the root cause analysis technique was used in a lean manufacturing environment to reduce scrap losses using a Pareto chart to prioritise wastage in order to be more focused for improvement.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to document an approach to reduce scrap losses using the root cause analysis technique in a lean manufacturing environment.Design/methodology/approach – The study uses lean manufacturing root cause problem solving (RCPS) technique. The study starts with the collection phase, followed by the analysis phase and ends with the solution phase. Supporting data are presented using a Pareto chart to prioritise wastage in order to be more focused for improvement. The Toyota Production System's 5‐whys analysis is performed to analyse the cause of wastages, to formulate and implement corrective actions.Findings – The application of the 5‐whys analysis in a manufacturing industry (XYZ Corporation) provides a fact‐based and structured approach to problem identification and correction that not only reduces, but also totally eliminates defects. Corrective action has permanently eliminated the top defect, which is the “last piece material scratch” and this results in zero scrap thereafter. In t...
TL;DR: In this paper, the causal relationship between quality management, service quality and business success in German logistics companies is analyzed empirically through factor analysis on a sample of 229 German logistics providers and the results support measuring logistics service quality by the three dimensions: service potential, process and outcome.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to analyse empirically the causal relationships between quality management, service quality and business success in German logistics companies.Design/methodology/approach – The paper develops a measurement instrument of logistics service quality by combining conceptual approaches from service marketing with quality indicators from operations management. This measure is verified through factor analysis on a sample of 229 German logistics providers. Relationships between logistics service quality, quality management and business success are investigated in a structural equation model.Findings – The results support measuring logistics service quality by the three dimensions: service potential, process and outcome. The effect of quality management on these constructs is confirmed. Likewise, the positive effect of service quality on business success is confirmed, with the notable exception of outcome quality.Research limitations/implications – This research only involves G...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report the results from a survey-based ex-postfacto study aimed at determining the relative importance, if any, of the changes traditional plan-driven software development projects have to undergo to adopt Agile software development practices.
Abstract: Purpose – Agile software development (ASD) is currently an emerging approach in software engineering for improving quality, initially advocated by a group of 17 software professionals who practice a set of “lightweight” methods, and share a common set of values of software development. Owing to the attractive claims of successes of the ASD approach, many traditional projects, which used to practice plan‐driven software development, are gradually transitioning into ASD‐based development. This paper seeks to report the results from a survey‐based ex‐post‐facto study aimed at determining the relative importance, if any, of the changes traditional plan‐driven software development projects have to undergo to adopt ASD practices.Design/methodology/approach – The study was conducted using a web‐based survey with ASD practitioners who had experience of practicing plan‐driven software development in the past. ASD practitioners from a wide range of industrial sectors participated in the study. Similarly, the study ...
TL;DR: In this article, the applicability of the Retail Service Quality Scale (RSQS) in retail stores in Kazakhstan, a country of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that is in the transition stage from a controlled economy to a market economy, was examined.
Abstract: Purpose – This research aims to examine the applicability of the Retail Service Quality Scale (RSQS) in retail stores in Kazakhstan, a country of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that is in the transition stage from a controlled economy to a market economy. This research also attempts to identify the dimensions and sub‐dimensions that contribute to increasing the customer base.Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 220 shoppers from department stores, discount stores, and supermarkets in Almaty city, Kazakhstan, was surveyed to examine the validity and reliability of the five dimensions (physical aspects, reliability, personal interaction, problem solving, and policy) and six sub‐dimensions (appearance, convenience, promises, doing‐it‐right, inspiring confidence and courteousness/helpfulness) of RSQS. The findings are cross‐validated hierarchically using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Step‐wise regression methods are used to identify the dimensions and sub‐dimensions contributing to in...
TL;DR: In this article, a taxonomy of ISO 9000 certification diffusion in Europe was created using the single linkage clustering algorithm and the features of each cluster were highlighted, and the authors found that European nations were found to belong to three macro areas which differ for patterns of ISO certification diffusion: the constant growth area, the saturation area and the decline area.
Abstract: Purpose – One of the stated goals behind the formation of the International Organization for Standardization was to develop standards to facilitate international trade in goods and services This goal has caused different country‐group trends in the diffusion of ISO certification The purpose of this paper is to create a taxonomy of ISO 9000 certification diffusion in EuropeDesign/methodology/approach – The diffusion of ISO certificates in Europe was analyzed using the single linkage clustering algorithm Then the features of each cluster were highlightedFindings – European nations were found to belong to three macro areas which differ for patterns of ISO 9000 certification diffusion: the constant growth area, the saturation area and the decline areaResearch limitations/implications – The present study deals with European nations, focusing on ISO 9000 standards Future research will be addressed toward the analysis of other standards in a wider geographical area in order to see if the results found for
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore the relationship between total quality management (TQM) practices and the business performance of Japanese-owned manufacturers in the USA and conclude that TQM is an effective method for improving business performance, regardless of where the company might be operating, as long as the TQLM practices are appropriately implemented.
Abstract: Purpose – The main objective of this study is to explore the relationship between total quality management (TQM) practices and the business performance of Japanese‐owned manufacturers in the USA.Design/methodology/approach – In this empirical study, 200 companies were chosen by random sampling from the universe group of 519 in August 2007. A total of 32 usable questionnaires were received, and the overall response rate was 16 percent.Findings – The survey results show that TQM practices significantly influence the overall company performance of Japanese‐owned manufacturers in the USA. This implies that TQM is an effective method for improving business performance, regardless of where the company might be operating, as long as the TQM practices are appropriately implemented. In addition to the research data, findings from a field research also provide supplementary evidence to support this conclusion.Originality/value – This study compares the findings from a recent survey conducted in the USA with the aut...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors analyzed and compared the evolution of ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 series in the leading countries in these certifications and found that the same few nations consistently occupied the highest rankings in both the ISO 9000 series and ISO14000 series certifications.
Abstract: Purpose – As the process of standardisation in all aspects of business management has accelerated in recent years in an environment characterised by economic globalisation and integration, two series of standards issued by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) stand out: the ISO 9000 series, related to the implementation of quality systems; and the ISO 14000 series, related to the implementation of environmental management systems. The purpose of this paper is to analyse and compare the evolution of both standards in the leading countries in these certifications.Design/methodology/approach – It is noteworthy that the same few nations consistently occupy the highest rankings in both the number of ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 series certifications. These countries are also those with highest growth rates in certifications. The present study examines these phenomena in terms of: a proposed new index for measuring the “certification intensity”; and a proposed model to analyse how standards are di...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated how to incorporate the exponentiated Weibull (EW) testing effort function (TEF) into inflection S-shaped software reliability growth models (SRGMs) based on nonhomogeneous Poisson process (NHPP).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate how to incorporate the exponentiated Weibull (EW) testing‐effort function (TEF) into inflection S‐shaped software reliability growth models (SRGMs) based on non‐homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP). The aim is also to present a more flexible SRGM with imperfect debugging.Design/methodology/approach – This paper reviews the EW TEFs and discusses inflection S‐shaped SRGM with EW testing‐effort to get a better description of the software fault detection phenomenon. The SRGM parameters are estimated by weighted least square estimation (WLSE) and maximum‐likelihood estimation (MLE) methods. Furthermore, the proposed models are also discussed under imperfect debugging environment.Findings – Experimental results from three actual data applications are analyzed and compared with the other existing models. The findings reveal that the proposed SRGM has better performance and prediction capability. Results also confirm that the EW TEF is suitable for incorporating...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors introduce the concept of balanced scorecard as the performance measurement for ISO certified industries, and adopts structural equation modeling to verify the causal relationship amongst the performance perspectives.
Abstract: Purpose – Using opto‐electronic industries as the example, the purpose of this paper is to include: designing reliable performance perspectives and indicators for evaluating ISO‐certified industries; and constructing a performance relationship model of those ISO‐certified industries.Design/methodology/approach – This paper introduces the concept of the balanced scorecard as the performance measurement for ISO‐certified industries, and adopts structural equation modelling to verify the causal relationship amongst the performance perspectives. The paper takes three opto‐electronic companies in Taiwan as evidence cases. The valid response numbers to the survey are 177.Findings – The research results indicate that the performance measurement indicators developed by this paper are effective in the ISO‐certified opto‐electronic industries. The evaluation indicators are comprised of five perspectives: finance, customer, internal process, learning and growing, and corporate mission. A causal relationship is found...
TL;DR: In this article, the availability, mean time to failure (MTTF), and expected profit of a complex system is investigated under a preemptive-repeat repair discipline where A is a priority and B is non-priority.
Abstract: Purpose – The main aim of this paper is to improve reliability characteristics namely availability, mean time to failure (MTTF), and expected profit of a complex system.Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses the availability of a complex system, which consists of two independent repairable subsystems A and B in (1‐out‐of‐2: F) and (1‐out‐of‐n: F) arrangement respectively. Subsystem A has two identical units arranged in parallel redundancy (1‐out‐of‐2: G), subsystem B has n units in series (1‐out‐of‐n: F) with two types of failure, namely, partial and catastrophic. Except at two transitions where there are two types of repair namely exponential and general possible. The failure and repair time for both subsystems follow exponential and general distributions respectively. The model is analysed under “preemptive‐repeat repair discipline” where A is a priority and B is non‐priority.Findings – By employing supplementary variable technique, Laplace transformation and Gumbel‐Hougaard family copula var...
TL;DR: In this article, a theoretical model of the integration of QMS and an internal audit within a broader managerial system and performance reviews of the company is developed to investigate how the internal audit can contribute to an improvement in business performance.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the internal audit can contribute to an improvement in business performance. The goal is to develop a theoretical model of the integration of quality management systems (QMS) and an internal audit within a broader managerial system and performance reviews of the company.Design/methodology/approach – A theoretical framework was developed for assessing the internal audit's contribution to the achievement of business goals. Based on the theoretically explained relationship two hypotheses related to impact of internal audits on business performance were empirically tested by a case study.Findings – A mature QMS should contribute to the achievement of a company's efficiency, which can be based on the connection of quality goals with the company's strategic goals, and in relation to this implementation of the internal audit should also be upgraded to contribute to achievement of the company's efficiency and strategic goals. Accordingly, the results of in...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore whether total quality management (TQM) firms execute various quality management practices significantly differently from non-tQM firms in the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) automotive supply chain.
Abstract: Purpose – The primary objective of this research is to explore whether total quality management (TQM) firms execute various quality management practices significantly differently from non‐TQM firms in the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) automotive supply chain. The study also aims to analyze differences between different tiers of this supply chain and to examine the relationship between the implementation of quality management systems and adoption of TQM.Design/methodology/approach – A total of 165 datasets collected from ASEAN automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and their tier 1 and 2 suppliers in five ASEAN countries were tested by using cross‐tabulation analysis and ANOVA with post hoc test.Findings – The results show that firms that have successfully implemented the concept of work standardization or process‐approach through quality management systems (QMS) certification have tended to pursue TQM as the subsequent stage in their quality journey. In addition, the study fo...
TL;DR: In this article, the impact of ISO 9000 on organisational culture, organisational climate, role stress and coping strategy was studied in an Indian public sector manufacturing industry by harnessing organisational knowledge through the creative involvement of organisational members.
Abstract: Purpose – The objective of this paper is to study the impact of ISO 9000 implementation on organisational culture, organisational climate, role stress and coping strategy.Design/methodology/approach – ISO 9000 was implemented in different production units of an Indian public sector manufacturing industry by harnessing organisational knowledge through the creative involvement of organisational members. Comprehensive work redesign for enhanced organisational effectiveness was realised while attaining ISO 9000 certification. Pre‐ and post‐ISO 9000 measurements were made for organisational culture in the first unit, organisational climate in the second unit, role stress in the third unit and coping strategy in the fourth unit. Statistical analysis of pre‐ and post‐measurements was carried out to identify significant changes attributable to ISO 9000 implementation.Findings – ISO 9000 implementation enhances the culture of collaboration; transforms the climate from dysfunctional to functional (by strengthening ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identified irregularities in the development of process FMEAs and highlighted seven factors that contribute to these inconsistencies, and proposed a strategy including a partially preconfigured FMEA form.
Abstract: Purpose – Use of failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is a requirement of ISO/TS 16949 However, research has shown that there are inconsistencies in the way the technique is applied in automotive suppliers The aim of this study is to identify these irregularities and to propose a strategy to minimize themDesign/methodology/approach – Questionnaires were applied in seven of the main suppliers to a European automotive company, and ten FMEAs from each company were analyzedFindings – The study identifies irregularities in the development of process FMEAs and highlights seven factors that contribute to these inconsistencies Based on these data, a strategy including a partially preconfigured FMEA form is suggested When tested with three of the suppliers, the strategy was found to result in a significant improvementOriginality/value – The study describes an application strategy for automotive companies to correct problems associated with the use of FMEAs The strategy includes a partly parameterized sp
TL;DR: In this article, two quality improvement tools, QFD and FMEA, are described and an integrated application of these quality improvement methodologies on a package material supplier is presented and analyzed.
Abstract: Purpose – Without doubt safety and satisfaction of the end user of food products are the most crucial aspect of food production. However, in order to achieve complete satisfaction, the effectiveness of all interconnected processes of the supply chain should be guaranteed. The purpose of this paper is to emphasise the advantages of using systematic quality improvement tools like QFD and FMEA in every part of the supply chain in food production.Design/methodology/approach – Two quality improvement tools, QFD and FMEA, are described and an integrated application of these quality improvement methodologies on a package material supplier is presented and analysed.Findings – The order‐receiving process requires a very deep and thorough understanding of customer needs and it is by nature an essential part of the quality deployment function itself. Any misunderstanding, mistake or omitted point can result in severe customer dissatisfaction through the order fulfilment process. QFD is a very helpful tool for transf...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore how various dissatisfaction feedback transferrals contribute to the decision-making process in product development contexts and explore how dissatisfaction feedback can be transferred to the design/methodology/app...
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how various dissatisfaction feedback transferrals contribute to the decision-making process in product development contexts. Design/methodology/app ...
TL;DR: In this paper, a sample of 292 employees drawn from ten SMEs, five of them ISO certified, responded to a questionnaire which measured the adequacy of the following HRM systems: career system (manpower planning and recruitment, potential assessment, career planning), work system (role analysis, contextual analysis, performance appraisal), development system (training and learning, performance guidance, knowledge sharing, other means of competency development), self-renewal system (Role efficacy, OD practices, action-oriented research), and HRD system (HRD climate, organizational values, quality
Abstract: Purpose – As organizations try to provide quality assurance from ISO certification, the importance of people management through better HR management assumes greater significance. This paper aims to examine this issue. It seeks to compare selected ISO certified SMEs with non‐ISO certified SMEs on several HR practices.Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 292 employees drawn from ten SMEs, five of them ISO certified, responded to a questionnaire which measured the adequacy of the following HRM systems: career system (manpower planning and recruitment, potential assessment, career planning), work system (role analysis, contextual analysis, performance appraisal), development system (training and learning, performance guidance, knowledge sharing, other means of competency development), self‐renewal system (role efficacy, OD practices, action‐oriented research), and HRD system (HRD climate, organizational values, quality orientation, reward and recognition).Findings – The results indicated a moderate ratin...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a holistic framework for selecting a quality management (QM) and improvement initiative, which is based on the internal factors (i.e., need to survive, sustain competitiveness, and increase operational effectiveness) and external factors (e.g., institutional push, trade barrier, and company image).
Abstract: Purpose – A growing number of publications have questioned and raised awareness of improvement fashions, especially in the area of quality management (QM), but rational decision‐making process has been promoted. Thus, this paper aims to address the selection issue and presents a holistic framework for selecting a QM and improvement initiative.Design/methodology/approach – The research was carried out in three phases. Phase One established a conceptual background for the adoption based on extensive literature review. Phase Two provided empirical studies of the QM approaches adopted in three leading case companies in Thailand and interviews with quality experts. Finally, Phase Three builds a theory of selection based on cross‐case analysis and a paradigm model.Findings – Triggers for the adoption are the internal factors (i.e. need to survive, sustain competitiveness, and increase operational effectiveness) and external factors (i.e. institutional push, trade barrier, and company image). The selection frame...
TL;DR: It is found that the component-based software system reliability increases as the component reliability increases, and the proposed software simulation technique will act as a tool for the software quality assurance team for evaluating the reliability of component‐based software systems.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the reliability of individual software components in terms of the probability that each software component performs its intended functionality successfully. The overall software system reliability is evaluated.Design/methodology/approach – This paper incorporates the reliability behavior of component‐based software system using Markov process.Findings – It is found that the component‐based software system reliability increases as the component reliability increases.Originality/value – This paper explores new directions in evaluating the reliability of component‐based software systems for software reliability and offers practical help to researchers and software industries in reliable software development. The proposed software simulation technique will act as a tool for the software quality assurance team for evaluating the reliability of component‐based software systems.