Total Quality Management in Higher Education: A Soft Factor Approach Based on Faculty Satisfaction

Abstract

The literature review showed very few organization-wide Total Quality Management (TQM) implementations and mixed opinions regarding its compatibility in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Considering the human-centric nature of HEIs this study investigated the interrelationship between the Soft TQM Factors, Faculty Satisfaction, and Student Success. A survey was designed to assess respondents’ perceptions regarding the implementation of Soft TQM Factors and satisfaction among faculty. Analysis of the responses revealed a clear positive relationship between Soft TQM Factors and Faculty Satisfaction. Moreover, Faculty Satisfaction was found to be associated with one of the measures of Student Success, the Graduation Rate. Thus, this study validates the significance of a Soft Factor approach of TQM implementation that concentrates on human-centric factors to enhance Faculty Satisfaction, which may, in turn, foster greater Student Success. The study also yielded a valid survey tool for assessing the implementation of Soft TQM Factors and Faculty Satisfaction in HEIs.