Implementation of Quality Improvement for Transportation Construction Administration

Abstract

Quality improvement efforts in the Iowa Department of Transportation Offices of Construction have persisted for three years and it appears that they will continue for the foreseeable future. This paper explains how the quality improvement process was started in those offices, describes how it operates, and examines why it continues. First the key functions and performance measuring system are described. Then the process improvement system is described, including both statewide activities and local field office activities. A discussion is included regarding steering team activities and reasons for the persistence of quality improvement activities. Finally, a model is provided that shows the foundations of quality improvement and the two plan-do-check-act cycles that are necessary for continued improvement.