Department - Author 1
Graphic Communication Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Graphic Communication
Date
6-2013
Primary Advisor
Kevin Cooper
Abstract/Summary
The purpose of this study was to determine the history and implications of the term “Total Quality Management”, to define the core principles of the concept, and to test their prevalence and effectiveness within the printing industry.
The research consisted of an in-depth survey, which was distributed to employees of printing companies across the country. The survey aimed to collect data that was predominately qualitative in nature. It inquired upon the utilization of quality management systems within the participant’s companies, the core objectives and direct effects of these systems, as well as upon the knowledge and usage of Total Quality Management principles in those companies. The collected data was then analyzed using content analysis, and case studies were developed by the information that was gathered.
Results from the research showed that the core principles of Total Quality Management were widely implemented in printing companies. It was also seen that, despite this, not many employees of these companies had a clear idea of what TQM is, and that the more successful companies tended to have a more solid knowledge and usage of the TQM principles. These companies may benefit by taking time to fully understand TQM and use it to its fullest potential.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/grcsp/92