Striving for Excellence: Deconstruction of Total Quality Management Measuring Model for Croatian Furniture Industry

Kristina Klarić, Andreja Pirc Barčić (), Krešimir Greger, Karla Vukman, Ivana Perić and Miljenko Klarić
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Kristina Klarić: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Andreja Pirc Barčić: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Krešimir Greger: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Karla Vukman: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Ivana Perić: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Miljenko Klarić: Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska Cesta 23, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 24, 1-17

Abstract: The significance of Total Quality Management (TQM) lies in its ability to enhance organizational efficiency, foster continuous improvement, and cultivate a culture of quality, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and sustained success. Conducted within the context of the Croatian furniture industry, this research aims to analyze and understand TQM, identify key implementation factors, and formulate a tailored assessment model. The methodology involves a literature review, the integration of relevant TQM factors, and empirical research using a structured questionnaire distributed among a representative sample of Croatian furniture companies. The resulting model encompasses Supplier Quality Management, Engagement of People, Employee Education, Continuous Improvement, Process Management, Company Strategy, Introduction of New Products, Customer Orientation, and Leadership Involvement. Empirical validation demonstrates positive correlations and high reliability. Despite its industry- and country-specific focus, this research offers valuable insights for academics and managers, providing a foundational set of key TQM implementation factors that are applicable beyond the studied context. In addition, the furniture industry, relying on wood as its main raw material, significantly contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through sustainable manufacturing practices, with an emphasis on TQM in production.

Keywords: Total Quality Management (TQM); implementation factors; assessment model; Croatian furniture industry (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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