New methodologies for integrated quality management

Abstract

The integrated quality system (IQS), has evolved as a new mapping of quality management activity. An earlier paper described eight fundamental activities intrinsic to a philosophy of order winning performance through distinctive products and services. During the development of IQS an action research programme was instituted to develop a new suite of methodologies to solve complex problems. They were created to address areas that seemed neglected by existing technology, such as the broad question of integration in both human and information system activity. From the outset the methods were designed to link or integrate together to overcome the fragmented tools approach to quality management. This paper provides an overview of progress made to date.