Title: Unveiling the path to TQM excellence: a strategic analysis using mixed method approach

Authors: Ankesh Mittal; Vimal Kumar; Manpreet Singh; Akansha Mer; Nagendra Kumar Sharma

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Sangrur, Punjab-148106, India ' Department of Information Management, Chaoyang University of Technology, Taichung-413310, Taiwan ' Chitkara University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Chandigarh-Patiala National Highway, NH-64 Village Jansla, Rajpura, Punjab 140401, India ' Deapartment of Commerce and Management, Banasthali Vidyapith, Tonk, Rajasthan-304001, India ' Department of Management Studies, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun-248002, India

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of barriers in the implementation of total quality management (TQM). Understanding the relationship between the barriers provides insight to manufacturing organisations on how to address the barriers encountered during the TQM journey. The study utilises a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including interviews, surveys, and literature review, to gather information on barriers to TQM implementation from a diverse range of sources. The application of AHP allows for the identification of key barriers and their prioritisation based on their impact on TQM implementation. ISM analysis further contributes by establishing the hierarchical relationships among these barriers, providing a structured representation of their interdependencies. By understanding the key barriers and their relationships, organisations can allocate resources effectively, prioritise their efforts, and develop targeted strategies to overcome these barriers and enhance TQM implementation. This research paper contributes to the existing knowledge on TQM implementation by highlighting the role of barriers and presenting a structured approach using AHP and ISM.

Keywords: manufacturing company; total quality management barriers; TQM; mix method; analytic hierarchy process; AHP; interpretive structural modelling; ISM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSCA.2025.145644

International Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage, 2025 Vol.15 No.3, pp.234 - 265

Received: 14 Jan 2024
Accepted: 24 Sep 2024
Published online: 09 Apr 2025 *

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