Planning and Implementing Total Quality Management in the Royal Australian Air Force: A Multiple Case Study Analysis
Abstract
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is committed to the world-wide challenge to constantly improve quality. Total Quality Management (TQM) is one initiative being investigated by the RAAF to achieve continuous improvement of it processes. The purpose of this thesis was to examine the elements of a TWM program, and provide guidelines for introducing TQM into the RAAF. To accomplish the research objectives, a literature review of quality-related material was conducted. Quality principles and techniques were discussed, as was development of strategies of continuous process improvement. In addition, multiple case study analysis of select U.S. DOD organizations which have implemented TQM, was used to highlight the problems associated with introducing TQM in a military environment. The study found that TQM appears to be an effective strategy for achieving continuous improvement in quality and productivity. The guidelines provided for implementation of TWM in the RAAF focused on five fundamental elements: culture, management direction, organization, people, and continuous process improvement. The integration of these five elements forms a strategy for TQM implementation in the RAAF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA229628
Entities
People
- Clayton L. Noble
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology