Antecedents of TQM implementation capability: a review with a conceptual model

Abstract

Despite a large body of knowledge on total quality management (TQM), there is hardly any research undertaken on the capability of an organisation to implement this important tool. This paper attempts to fill this gap, and thus, proposes a conceptual framework of TQM implementation capability. This framework includes integrated relationships based on several constituent models, that is, management commitment, affective communication, person–environment fit and organisational support. The seven propositions, derived from these elements, highlight the dynamic relationship between the antecedents of TQM implementation capability. Different human resource concepts such as management commitment towards customers and organisation, quality team development through behavioural change and readiness to learn, person–environment fit, affective commitment and organisational support in the form of contextual support and structural support are used as antecedents for this purpose. The proposed framework can help organisations make the process of TQM implementation effective through developing or enhancing their TQM implementation capability.

Keywords:

• TQM implementation capability
• management commitment
• organisational support
• quality teams
• change management

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the editor and an anonymous referee for useful comments and suggestions to improve the quality of this paper.