Quality management in small manufacturing

A survey of small businesses in Kentucky was conducted in the area of total quality management. The objective of the research was to determine the level of effort of small manufacturing firms in quality management and the degree to which their managers are currently guided by the TQM model as opposed to the economic conformance model. Preliminary results indicate the degree of penetration of the TQM philosophy and concepts among managers in small manufacturing firms. Also studied were the important elements in the operation and management of these firms that promote or discourage the successful implementation of TQM.