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PurposeTo obtain a general opinion concerning the implementation of quality management systems (QMS) of construction‐related firms in the USA and Hong Kong, and to determine whether construction‐related firms have ever made an effort to measure quality improvement.Design/methodology/approachTwo questionnaire surveys, one in the USA and one in Hong Kong, were conducted by sending out questionnaires to construction‐related companies. The surveys were then followed by 15 in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with top management and quality managers of construction‐related firms in both the USA and Hong Kong.FindingsThe results of the study indicate that different perceptions towards the implementation of formal quality management systems existed between the two places. Mainly due to the lack of initiative and promotion from both clients and governments, construction companies in the USA have failed to see the need to obtain the ISO 9000 certification. In Hong Kong, however, the government's initiatives have resulted in a high percentage of companies having certified to the ISO 9000 standards. The results of the study also indicate that, though most companies used different tools for quality measurements, such measurements were mainly for monitoring and for recording purposes.Originality/valueThis is the first time that such a rigorous comparative study of quality management systems in the construction companies of two different countries has been conducted. It provides useful and practical insights into the differences and similarities between US and Hong Kong construction industries. This paper should be extremely valuable to practitioners in both countries, particularly the USA.

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