Quality objectives in management systems – their attributes, establishment and motivational function

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to show the ways of setting quality objectives, their attributes and the conditions under which they can perform a motivational function.Design/methodology/approachCollecting relevant data, the authors used the results of previous research and theoretical assumptions concerning quality objectives. Subsequently, they carried out a survey and exemplification research based on participatory observations, document content analysis and interviews.FindingsGoals are set mainly by top management, but the communication process itself is insufficient; the needs of system users are not taken into account. In the opinion of the employees, quality objectives are measurable and objective, although not very ambitious. For quality objectives to fulfil a motivational function, they should be objective and measurable. Also, the allocation of tasks among employees needs to be fair. Furthermore, quality objectives have to play a greater role in remuneration systems.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the first publications on the role and function of quality objectives. Its advantage is that it defines the conditions under which such objectives can have a motivational effect and encourage employees to pursue the improvement of their products and services.

Examining the integration of continuous improvement and strategic planning in select pharmaceutical companies in India: a case study

“…In other words, the key objective of quality management is to eliminate failure in concept and actual product as well as processes involved in its delivery (Al-Qahtani et al , 2015). Quality objectives or quality goals not only refer to the quality of final product being manufactured but also to the quality of service as well as quality of life in the work place (Bugdol and Jedynak, 2021). It is recognized in the quality management literature that quality objectives must be linked to product requirements as well as business and strategic objectives (Allison and Byron, 1996; Djouab et al , 2016).…”

“…A strategic view of quality indicates that quality and productivity goals can be and must be achieved simultaneously by focusing on eliminating waste and reduce non-value adding activities to a minimum (Chapman and Hyland, 1997). However, it is significant to understand the quality objectives because they determine the direction of quality improvement objectives and allow the organizations to measure the effectiveness of quality management systems (Bugdol and Jedynak, 2021).…”

“…It is recognized in the quality management literature that quality objectives must be linked to product requirements as well as business and strategic objectives (Allison and Byron, 1996; Djouab et al , 2016). In addition the quality objectives should be lucid, precise, pragmatic, linked to an incentive function, regularly adjusted and mutually consistent and clearly assigned (Bugdol and Jedynak, 2021).…”

“…Therefore, the factors in the external environment are not considered. The review of the existing literature indicates that the link between quality and strategy has not received much attention and needs further research (Leonard and McAdam, 2002a, b; Mosadeghrad, 2012; Bugdol and Jedynak, 2021). The current research study is conducted with the intent to explore this relationship.…”

Designing fair annual bonus formulations for workers: A case study of the state-owned enterprise cement holding in Indonesia

“…Assessing quality objectives is also a part of management control (Lau et al, 2021 ). The tasks should be measurable, objective, and fair, as the results will impact the remuneration systems (Bugdol and Jedynak, 2022 ). The principle is that workers should receive equal pay for equal work performed (Kosheleva and Aguilar, 2022 ; Škrinjarić, 2022 ).…”