Gurus of quality: a framework for comparison

Abstract

‘Quality’ is an important competitive factor and in some markets a prerequisite of survival. This is why more and more organizations are implementing BS 5750 and total quality management (TQM). The ‘quality’ field is dominated by a number of scholars, the so-called gurus of ‘quality’. Many organizations in their haste to introduce TQM turn to the gurus. Their methods are implemented in a formulaic manner. Management often fails to consider the relevance of the approach to the organization's needs and values. In this paper, we briefly describe the key features of the methods of Deming, Furan, Crosby, Feigenbaum, Taguchi, Ishikawa and Groocock. These seven are considered by many to be the main gurus of quality. In addition, we develop a matrix of key factors for each guru. This will enable the managers and researchers to compare the various methods in a systematic fashion, thus assisting the management to choose a particular method rationally. Alternatively, this paper will assist them in developing a hybrid method suited to their organization's needs. The paper also considers the similarities and differences between the methods.