The Impact of TQM Practices in Improving Product Quality: Bangladesh Garment Organizations as a Case

Abstract

The increase in competition, changes in import and export policies, and increased customer consciousness have resulted in organizations focusing on the use of TQM practices to remain competitive. This study identifies the practices of TQM. In addition, this study also examines the association between TQM practices and product quality. It uses data obtained from 133 garment organizations. Results reveal that TQM practices, including leadership (employee empowerment, resource allocation), employee participation (cross-functional teams, employee authority), supplier relationship (supplier audit), and customer focus (customer survey) have positive association with product quality. These findings lead to the conclusion that if sample organizations can achieve quality improvement thorough TQM practices, then other garment organizations of Bangladesh may also do so. It is important to create right awareness for all organizations to realize these improvements.