Title: The impact of total quality management practices on competitive advantage

Authors: Tryson Yangailo

Addresses: Graduate School of Business, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract: Total quality management (TQM) is widely regarded as a means of achieving competitive advantage (CA), but lacks a robust theoretical underpinning. This study examines this claim in the railway sector, an under-researched area. It evaluates the impact of TQM on CA in the Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). One hundred fifty one out of 200 managers surveyed responded. Correlation and regression analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between TQM practices and CA. In particular, quality results and process management have a positive impact on CA. However, aspects such as customer focus, employee involvement, education, training and top management commitment show no significant impact. The study calls for further research into the effects of TQM in railways and recommends government intervention to rejuvenate the sector. These include regulatory measures to shift freight to rail, infrastructure investment and the creation of dedicated regulatory or development agencies.

Keywords: total quality management; TQM practices; competitive advantage; CA; railway sector.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSCA.2024.145344

International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage, 2024 Vol.15 No.2, pp.99 - 129

Accepted: 14 May 2024
Published online: 31 Mar 2025 *

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