Key factors for implementation of total quality management in construction Sector: A system dynamics approach

Maintaining quality in construction projects is paramount to project success, achieved through techniques such as Total Quality Management (TQM). However, the key factors of TQM implementation in the construction industry of developing countries are not well explored. Accordingly, this paper evaluated the causative relationship and intricacies of TQM implementation in the construction sector of developing countries. A total of 28 key factors of TQM were captured through a literature review. Thereafter, 12 significant key factors were shortlisted. Lack of top management commitment, poor customer/client satisfaction, inadequate quality of education regarding TQM, and ineffective organizational quality culture emerged as impediments to implementing TQM in the construction sector. A Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) was developed to represent interrelations between the 12 shortlisted factors. In addition, a system dynamics model (SDM) was developed. The simulation results of the developed SDM indicated an increase in TQM implementation over the period under the defined system.