International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management

Dallasheh, Waleed Wasif

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-07-2024-0247pmid: N/A

This study explores the implementation of total quality management (TQM) in Arab minority colleges in Israel, focusing on the influence of demographic factors such as college type, job position, gender and specialization on TQM domains. The aim is to highlight institutional strengths and weaknesses and provide recommendations for improving equity and quality in higher education.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative, correlative–comparative design was used. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire covering five TQM domains: preparing TQM requirements, learning–teaching process management, people management, teamwork and decision-making and customer satisfaction and community service. The sample included 778 lecturers and administrators (33.4% of the population). Statistical analyses (t-test, ANOVA and MANOVA) were applied to examine group differences across demographic and institutional variables.FindingsTQM application ranged from medium to high. “Preparing TQM Requirements” scored highest, while “Teamwork and Decision-Making” and “Customer Satisfaction and Community Service” scored lowest. Significant differences were found by college type, job position, gender and specialization. Academic and teacher training colleges outperformed private colleges, with males and senior administrators reporting higher engagement in TQM practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe study underscores the need for context-sensitive quality frameworks in minority higher education. It highlights the importance of participatory governance, decentralized decision-making and systematic feedback to strengthen institutional performance and stakeholder engagement.Practical implicationsThis study offers actionable insights for enhancing total quality management (TQM) practices in Arab minority colleges. By addressing critical areas such as decentralized decision-making, scientific evaluation mechanisms and stakeholder engagement, the research provides practical strategies for administrators and policymakers to improve institutional effectiveness. Recommendations, including tailored training programs and alignment with quality assurance frameworks, support the development of robust governance models and efficient resource management. The study emphasizes aligning educational practices with societal needs, enabling institutions to produce graduates who are well-prepared for labor market demands while fostering continuous improvement in higher education operations.Social implicationsThis study highlights the significant societal implications of implementing total quality management (TQM) in Arab minority colleges within Israel's higher education sector. By aligning educational practices with stakeholder needs, TQM fosters improved community engagement, increased student satisfaction and enhanced institutional accountability. The findings underline the potential of TQM to bridge gaps in educational equity, particularly in marginalized communities, promoting social mobility and reducing disparities. Practical recommendations, such as decentralized decision-making and culturally sensitive governance models, offer actionable insights for fostering stronger ties between academic institutions and their surrounding communities, ultimately contributing to social cohesion and economic development.Originality/valueThis research is among the first to systematically assess TQM in Arab minority colleges in Israel. It integrates cultural, demographic and institutional dimensions and offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, administrators and faculty to advance educational quality and equity in resource-constrained contexts.

Torres, Vitoria R.; Silva, Isabelly P.

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-12-2024-0445pmid: N/A

This study aimed to develop an innovative methodology that combines Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) with Fuzzy logic and the 5S criterion to improve assertiveness in risk management and increase the reliability of apron weigh feeder in the cement industry.Design/methodology/approachThe methodological approach included the application of Fuzzy logic to conventional FMEA, using the Fuzzy Logic Toolbox in MATLAB and directly incorporating the 5S criterion into the assessment of criticalities. The study was conducted in a cement plant in Brazil, where failure histories were analyzed by experts to validate the efficiency of the proposal.FindingsThe results indicated that the integration of 5S with Fuzzy FMEA provided greater sensitivity to operational variables than conventional FMEA, significantly improving decision-making regarding critical failure modes in the studied weigh feeder.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of this work lies in the dependence of results on the quality of the fuzzy rule base, which must be carefully designed. Future studies could investigate automating fuzzy outputs, integrating predictive maintenance data, and expanding applications to diverse industrial contexts.Practical implicationsThe proposed methodology is versatile and can be applied across diverse sectors, including healthcare, finance, education and energy, serving as a reference for enhancing risk management and maintenance practices while improving safety, operational efficiency, cost reduction and failure prevention.Social implicationsThe work may contribute to more efficient and safer operations, potentially improving workplace safety, reducing the risk of industrial accidents, enhancing the reliability of goods and services delivery and decreasing environmental impacts.Originality/valueThis study stands out for its originality in proposing and validating an unprecedented integration of the 5S criterion with FMEA using Fuzzy Logic, filling theoretical gaps and providing a practical approach that can be applied in other industrial contexts.

Parmar, Narendrasinh Jesangbhai; James, Ajith Tom; Asjad, Mohammad; Khan, Zahid A.

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-08-2023-0257pmid: N/A

The trend of outsourcing heavy equipment maintenance, including belt conveyor installations, is on the rise. Owners and operators of such systems, on the other hand, face a difficult problem in finding a competent contractor to whom these maintenance services might be outsourced. This study proposes a framework for selecting a suitable contractor for the outsourcing of maintenance of belt conveyor installations.Design/methodology/approachThrough a review of the literature, field visits and expert opinion, this article defines the selection criteria for contractors performing outsourced maintenance tasks on belt conveyor installations. To pick the best contractor among options, a hybrid structural methodology incorporating AHP and PROMETHEE-II is used.FindingsThe article has identified seven criteria that affect the selection of maintenance contractors for belt conveyor systems, including financial health, organizational strength, service track record, maintenance service quality, personal skills, tools and equipment support and health, safety, and environment. Each criterion is built upon several sub-criteria. AHP methodology has been used to rank the selection criteria and the methodology of PROMETHEE-II has been used for selecting the best contractor among alternatives.Practical implicationsA comprehensive list of selection criteria for outsourced maintenance activities of belt conveyor installations has been established. Following that, a framework for selecting the best contractor among alternatives is created. This will assist the organizations that own and operate these installations in making informed decisions about the hiring of suitable maintenance contractors.Originality/valueUsing the input of various stakeholders, this research considerably contributes to the literature on outsourcing maintenance of heavy machinery installations such as belt conveyor systems. Such a study will lead to the formulation of guidelines for the selection of maintenance contractors.

El Manzani, Younès

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-05-2025-0153pmid: N/A

This paper introduces and conceptualizes the construct of quality mindset (QM), defined as employees' underlying beliefs about the meaning and significance of quality, which influence their behaviors, motivations and commitment to achieving quality outcomes. The study aims to explain how these beliefs shape quality performance at both individual and organizational levels.Design/methodology/approachDrawing on Dweck's (2017) theory of implicit person beliefs, the paper positions QM within the broader domain of implicit theories, explicitly focusing on employees' perceptions of whether quality capabilities are static or developable. Following a conceptual theory-building approach, a conceptual model is proposed based on an integrative reflection on literature across quality management, organizational behavior, and psychology. Two dimensions of QM are introduced: compliance-oriented and excellence-oriented. A measurement scale is also proposed for assessing these dimensions.FindingsThe article delineates the antecedents, mediating mechanisms and outcomes associated with different forms of QM. It discusses how QM influences quality-related behaviors and organizational performance through distinct psychological and contextual pathways. The excellence-oriented QM is particularly related to proactive quality practices and continuous improvement.Research limitations/implicationsAs a conceptual paper, empirical validation of the proposed QM typologies and measurement scale remains a key area for future research. Further studies are needed to test the model across different industries and cultural contexts.Practical implicationsUnderstanding employees' quality mindsets can inform managerial interventions designed to foster a culture of quality. Tailored strategies can be developed to shift beliefs towards an excellence-oriented QM, thereby enhancing overall quality performance.Social implicationsBy promoting a developmental view of quality, organizations can foster greater employee engagement, innovation and accountability, ultimately leading to more sustainable and ethically grounded quality practices.Originality/valueThis paper introduces a novel psychological construct, QM, to the quality management literature, extending the application of implicit theories to organizational contexts. It provides a fresh lens through which to understand individual variation in quality-related behavior, offering a foundation for future research and practical quality enhancement initiatives.

Toledo, José Carlos de; Silva, Jonatas Inocencio; Moreno, Marina Gomes Murta; Lizarelli, Fabiane Letícia; Poltronieri, Camila Fabrício; González, Mario Orestes Aguirre

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-08-2025-0293pmid: N/A

This study investigates the deployment of quality tools and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies within the nonconformity management (NCM) processes of Brazilian manufacturing companies with certified quality system.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a sequential mixed-methods design, the research began with a systematic literature review (SLR) to delineate the landscape of I4.0 technologies relevant to NCM. Subsequently, a descriptive and exploratory survey was conducted with 112 industrial companies. The survey collected data on established NCM practices, the degree of I4.0 technology integration and perceived barriers to implementation. Quantitative data were analyzed using cluster analysis and association tests.FindingsThe SLR highlighted a theoretical emphasis on the application of big data and machine learning across NCM stages. However, empirical results revealed that while most companies have formalized NCM procedures, the adoption of I4.0 technologies most widely adopted are cloud computing and system integration. Companies with higher intensity in using traditional quality tools, key performance indicators and information technology support reported significantly greater perceived NCM effectiveness.Practical implicationsThe findings indicate that integrating traditional quality management tools with intelligent I4.0 technologies can significantly enhance NCM performance, provided that cultural and leadership barriers are effectively addressed. This study offers practical guidance for quality management professionals aiming to modernize NCM processes and align them with the broader goals of digital transformation.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the evolving knowledge base by synthesizing literature on I4.0 applications in NCM and providing original empirical evidence concerning the current state of their implementation within certified Brazilian manufacturing settings.

Tan, Lay Hong; Hamid, Syaiful Rizal; Chew, Boon Cheong; Choo, Yun-Huoy; Al-Betar, Mohammed Azmi

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-05-2025-0147pmid: N/A

This study aims to propose a user-centred Quality-of-Life Technology (QoLT) product and service design strategy tailored for the elderly by considering the evolving technological landscape of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the shifting values and needs of the ageing population.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted the widely accepted service design model, the double-diamond process. In the discovery phase, literature on QoLT and elderly users was reviewed. Subsequently, user-centred QoLT domains were identified in the define phase. The development phase involved interface analysis of existing QoLT examples and idea generation through a co-creation workshop with elderly-related experts. Finally, in the delivery phase, in-depth interviews were conducted to prioritise ideas based on user importance and technological innovation, in thereby offering user-centred insights for practical implementation.FindingsThree key concepts essential for QoLT product and service design for the elderly emerged: (1) device-user interaction, (2) user-centred design, and (3) service systematisation and expansion. These key concepts were further translated into an idea map covering major QoLT areas. The map is expected to guide future product and service development aligned with the elderly's life experiences and needs.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study offers a robust user-centred framework, the limitations include potential biases due to the sample size, focus group composition, and the contextual specificity of elderly needs, which may vary across regions and cultures.Practical implicationsThis study provides actionable strategies and a structured idea map that developers, designers, and service providers can utilise in creating effective, elderly-oriented QoLT solutions. The study also informs policymakers by offering a user-centred basis for future assistive technology policies.Originality/valueThis study stands out by integrating user perspectives and expert insights to establish a comprehensive QoLT design strategy. The study also contributes novel, systematised guidance for enhancing the elderly's quality of life through technology, marking a significant step forward in QoLT Product and Service Design Model.

Tavares, Thais Moreira; Toledo, José Carlos de; Godinho Filho, Moacir; Tortorella, Guilherme da Luz; Maia, Daniele dos Reis Pereira; Ganga, Gilberto Miller Devós; Callefi, Mario Henrique

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-11-2024-0379pmid: N/A

This paper examines the integration of Lean Manufacturing (LM) principles with Circular Economy (CE) strategies through a systematic literature review (SLR), grounded in the Knowledge Maturity Theory (KMT) framework. The study traces the evolution from initial applications of LM tools (e.g. Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and cellular manufacturing) for CE objectives, to a more strategic, philosophical, and holistic integration of both paradigms.Design/methodology/approachAn SLR was conducted, encompassing 42 peer-reviewed studies from diverse industries, to demonstrate the broad applicability of LM and CE principles in both manufacturing and service sectors.FindingsOur findings indicate that while LM tools are widely adopted for CE goals, the more profound philosophical integration of LM and CE, which seeks to embed sustainable practices culturally, is underexplored and represents a significant opportunity for advancement. Additionally, the strategic incorporation of LM and CE principles into organizational strategies significantly enhances sustainability, although their effectiveness varies widely by industry and region.Practical implicationsThis study suggests employing LM methodologies to foster broader CE goals, advocating sustainability as a core business strategy, and calling for a deeper integration of these principles into organizational strategies and cultures.Social implicationsAdvancing LM and CE practices supports sustainable development by enhancing resource efficiency and reducing waste, benefiting society through improved environmental stewardship.Originality/valueThis work applies KMT to assess the maturation of LM-CE knowledge. It presents a novel perspective on the transition from operational to strategic implementations, highlighting the synergy between LM tools and CE for sustainable business practices. We develop a research agenda addressing current literature gaps for each phase of the maturity model, providing scholars and practitioners with clear pathways for advancing LM-CE integration.

Li, Yuxuan; Li, Yanrong; He, Zhen; Li, Longhui; Niu, Zhanwen

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-07-2025-0231pmid: N/A

The purpose of this study is to develop a root cause analysis (RCA) solution for quality failures in complex industrial settings under multi-variety, small-batch production. It aims to systematically address key challenges in data-driven approaches, including data scarcity, heterogeneous cross-variety data distributions, and the coexistence of scalar and functional variables.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes a Heterogeneous-data-based Family Bayesian Network (H-FamilyBN) learning scheme for cross-variety RCA. Specifically, the problem is cast as a multi-task learning formulation over a family of Bayesian networks (BNs), each corresponding to a distinct product variety. A distribution-adaptive data augmentation strategy is first employed to construct task-specific datasets. Then, considering prior domain knowledge, each BN structure is oriented by defining pairwise directed edge learning with scalar and functional variables. Meanwhile, a causality divergence penalty is introduced to facilitate information sharing across family BN members.FindingsA case study on robotic welding in automotive production is conducted to verify the validity of the proposed scheme. The scheme demonstrates interpretability and effectiveness by capturing topological structure and revealing the underlying causality among variables. Additionally, it achieves higher prediction accuracy and generates denser BN structures compared with the benchmark methods, thereby decreasing the likelihood of false negatives in causal inference and fault diagnosis.Originality/valueThis study introduces an intelligent decision-making scheme that integrates industrial data with domain knowledge for quality management. The scheme offers a valuable tool for identifying the faults and their propagation paths by leveraging the BN technique, providing practical insights for process improvement and quality enhancement.

Ahmed, Selim; Hossain, Md Emran; Rahman, Muhammad Khalilur; Masud, Abdullah Al; Ahmed, Ezaz; Bashir, Mamoon

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-07-2025-0245pmid: N/A

The present study examines the influence of leadership, employee involvement and Green Lean Six Sigma (GLSS) on the quality improvement of patient safety in specialised hospitals. This study also investigates the mediating roles of GLSS and employee involvement in the relationship between leadership and the improvement in patient safety quality.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, a stratified random sampling technique was applied to collect data from 384 respondents of specialised hospitals in Bangladesh. SmartPLS 4 was employed to assess construct reliability and validity and to test mediation effects via bootstrapping. Furthermore, hypotheses were tested via partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe study’s findings indicate that leadership, employee involvement and GLSS have a positive and significant influence on the quality of patient safety. Based on the results, employee involvement has the greatest impact on quality and patient safety improvement compared to leadership and GLSS. However, the research findings also indicate that leadership does not directly influence the quality improvement of patient safety but does so indirectly through the mediating effects of GLSS and employee involvement.Practical implicationsThis study provides important insights into how healthcare practitioners can enhance patient safety outcomes through effective leadership and operational activities. The results are informative regarding the management of specialised hospitals. The findings may serve as a reference point for the evaluation of GLSS and for the ecological sustainability of hospital management practices in developed and developing countries.Originality/valueThis study offers theoretical and practical contributions, and it is anticipated that the research findings will generate ideas to improve patient safety and quality in healthcare organisations.

Ghafarzadeh Kermani, Mohsen; Sheikh Aboumasoudi, Abbas; Shahin, Arash; Amindoust, Atefeh

doi: 10.1108/ijqrm-04-2025-0132pmid: N/A

This study aims to conduct scenario planning for the direction domain of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) Excellence Model 2025.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, the initial strategic key factors in the Direction domain of the EFQM Model 2025 were first identified using fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) and fuzzy linguistic MICMAC (FLMICMAC). These factors were then refined and ranked through paired comparison questionnaires and the Pareto principle. Based on these finalized factors, plausible future states were defined and scenario planning and validation were conducted using the cross-impact balance (CIB) method. The research was carried out within a holding company, involving a statistical population of 18 senior managers and experts.FindingsThe findings of this study indicate that the factors “Enable Creativity and Innovation”, “Create the Conditions for Realising Change” and “Steer the Organisation's Culture and Nurture Values” play a crucial role in achieving organisational success and performance improvement. These factors significantly contribute to strategic goal attainment and facilitate organisational transformation. Furthermore, three robust and internally consistent scenarios were identified: “Innovative Transformation”, “Organisational Stagnation” and “Gradual Transformation”. Among these, “Innovative Transformation” and “Gradual Transformation” were classified as desirable scenarios, while “Organisational Stagnation” was deemed undesirable.Practical implicationsThe proposed method enables managers to formulate strategies based on scenarios for the Direction domain of the EFQM Model 2025 and to prioritise investments and reduce change costs using EFQM-aligned key performance indicators by establishing a change management office, participatory policies, a foresight unit and structural enablers.Originality/valueThis study presents an innovative approach to analysing the strategic Direction domain within the EFQM Model 2025 by integrating three analytical methods: FCM, FLMICMAC and CIB. Unlike previous studies that typically applied analytical techniques in isolation, this research improves the accuracy of forecasting and decision-making by combining fuzzy analytical methods with scenario-based analysis. Furthermore, rather than concentrating solely on implementation across all domains of the EFQM Model 2025, the study highlights the “Direction” domain as the core of strategic management and simulates potential organisational futures accordingly.