An analysis of the state of total quality in academia

Abstract

Implementation of total quality in an academic environment requires major organizational changes predicated on a new paradigm directed at continuous process improvement. The principles of total quality can be successfully applied in academic institutions. Implementation in any organization can be a difficult process, subject to a number of risks and external constraints. Academe is not fundamentally different from industry with regard to implementation of total quality. This study identifies 126 institutions of higher learning actively applying total quality. Telephone interviews were conducted with representatives of 192 post-secondary education institutions In depth personal interviews with representatives of nine academic institutions that are currently applying the principles of total quality to internal processes were also conducted. These contacts provided the foundations for an examination of total quality in academia. Roles of leadership, implementation strategies, organizational structure, and management systems are explored. Measurement, outcomes and results of the quality effort are also investigated.