An integrated model of TQM and GE-Six-Sigma Online publication date: Sun, 19-Sep-2004
by Ching-Chow Yang
International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage (IJSSCA), Vol. 1, No. 1, 2004
Abstract: TQM has enjoyed great popularity in industries of all types since its development in the mid-1980s. However, in recent years, interest in TQM has declined. In contrast, Six-Sigma, especially in its form implemented by General Electric (GE-6σ), has become a popular management tool in the world. As a result, some researchers and practitioners assert that firms should implement Six-Sigma in preference to TQM. This paper analyses the contents and practices of TQM and Six-Sigma, and compares them against twelve dimensions. It is concluded that TQM cannot be replaced by Six-Sigma. However, TQM cannot obtain the radical results achieved by Six-Sigma. It is suggested that the implementation of Six-Sigma can make up for this deficiency in TQM. Although the manipulation and management practices of TQM and GE-6σ are somewhat different, there is congruence between their quality concepts, leadership, and culture. In addition, TQM and GE-6σ share the same goals of pursuing customer satisfaction and business profits, and the integration of TQM and GE-6σ should therefore have synergistic effects. The present paper utilises customer loyalty and business performance as the strategic goal of an integrated model of the two programmes. The proposed model discusses management principles, implementation practices, and cultural changes implied by integration. This integrated model is of significance for
practitioners and academics alike.
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage (IJSSCA):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:
Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.
If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com