The role of TQM and BPR in executing quality improvement: a comparative study

Abstract

In order to sustain a competitive edge in this global manufacturing era, enterprises need to adopt appropriate improvement schemes. This article examines a detailed study of quality improvement tools mostly used in the organizations. As this is the conceptual paper, the paper focuses on two important quality improvement techniques, BPR (Business Process Reengineering) and TQM (Total quality management). Both the approaches clinch the same thoughts and objectives for organizational enhancement but the difference lies in terms of means used by each technique, the risk, time frame and the magnitude of change expected from each of these programs. In order to attain this comparison, the article first defines and explains each of the approaches for the in depth understanding of the difference as well as similarities between these two. The articles (related to the comparison of these two improvement tools) of almost last 15 years are gathered and studied in detail and then conclusion is drawn based on the findings of different previous articles. The methodology used primarily is literature review as well as the case study method also helps in gathering the data. The study concludes that even though both the approaches intend to enhance organizational competence, they are relatively different both theoretically as well as practically and each of the approach is suitable for different situation depending upon the needs and requirements of the organization.

Keywords: Competitive edge, TQM, BPR