Implementation of TQM in Building Design and Construction

Abstract

Iowa State University's Construction Engineering faculty and the Quality Management Division of the American Society for Quality Control have sponsored and conducted two workshops on total quality management (TQM) in building design and construction in recent years. The second of these workshops brought together 50 industry practitioners with the goal of discussing the implementation of TQM in building design and construction. Through breakout session discussions and with guidance provided by companies with in‐place TQM programs, the participants developed a model implementation plan. The breakout sessions allowed small‐group discussion of three areas considered vital in any implementation of TQM. These included: (1) Organization, management involvement, and training; (2) customer and employee feedback mechanisms; and (3) teamwork, employee involvement, and recognition. The discussions in the breakout sessions were extended by the participants to generate a model TQM implementation plan. This plan is presented along with other information regarding the implementation of TQM for contractor, design, and owner organizations.