History and Theories of Quality Management

Quality Management History and Theories

Quality Management Standards

The history of quality management standards dates back to medieval Europe, where craftsmen organized into guilds and established stringent product quality standards. The guilds marked compliant goods with a special symbol after inspection. In the 20th century, quality management systems began to be developed, with the first statistical sampling techniques introduced in the 1920s. These techniques were pioneered by Walter A. Shewhart, who is often referred to as the father of statistical quality control.

In the 1950s, quality management systems were further developed, with an increasing demand for productivity leading to a breakdown in quality control. In response, quality practices aimed at actively improving processes were developed, and experts such as W. Edwards Deming and Joseph M. Juran played key roles in shaping these techniques. The ISO 9000 series of quality management standards were published in 1987, and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award was established the same year.

In the 21st century, quality management standards continued to evolve, with a focus on risk management and customer satisfaction. For example, the ISO 9001 standard was revised in 2015 to increase emphasis on risk management, and the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award added a business results criterion to its measures of applicant success in 1995.

Key Figures in Quality Management

W. Edwards Deming and Joseph M. Juran are two of the most influential figures in the history of quality management. Deming is known for his work on statistical quality control and the development of the Shewhart cycle, or Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology. Juran, on the other hand, is considered the father of many of the quality management techniques still used in industry today. He began working in the field of quality control in the early 20th century and went on to develop theories on quality control while lecturing and consulting extensively.

Theories of Quality Management

The theory of quality management can be traced back to the 1920s, when statistical sampling techniques were introduced into quality control methodology. These techniques were based on the principles of reducing variation in a manufacturing process. Later, in the 1930s, Shewhart presented a theory of production, focusing on value generation through the fabrication of raw materials into finished products.

In the 1950s, quality management systems evolved to include a process approach, with a focus on improving all organizational processes through the people who used them. This approach contrasted with the earlier reliance on product inspection. In the 1960s, quality management systems were influenced by the concept of total quality management (TQM), which drew on principles from the behavioral sciences, economics theories, and process analysis.

In the 21st century, quality management theories have expanded to include continuous process improvement and operational excellence, as well as a focus on customer satisfaction and risk management. These theories have been shaped by the work of thought leaders such as Deming, Juran, and Shewhart, as well as by the ongoing development of ISO standards and process improvement tools like Six Sigma.

Explore the evolution of quality management standards, key figures in quality management, and the theories that have shaped the field. From medieval guilds to the modern focus on customer satisfaction and risk management, learn about the contributions of influential figures like W. Edwards Deming, Joseph M. Juran, and Walter A. Shewhart.