A Quality Management System Implementation Framework for Small-Sized Companies

Abstract

A detailed framework is essential to facilitate quality system implementation. In this study, we have offered a cost effective do-it-yourself approach to quality management. We have proposed a quality system implementation framework for small-medium sized organizations to enable their transition from a no-quality system to an ISO 9001 quality management system. The proposed framework is validated using a case study of a small door manufacturing company. The findings reveal several setbacks experienced during quality system implementation and suggests means to overcome them using a proposed seven step framework. This study also advises an effective maintenance tool to facilitate continuous improvement in organizations after implementing a quality management system. The study results will be useful for quality practitioners, managers, consultants and engineers, especially in small companies and discloses several benefits that can be achieved by employing the proposed framework in any organization irrespective of its size and nature.