The applicability of quality management systems and models to higher education

Purpose The main purpose of this paper is study to what extent the idea of a total quality management (TQM) system (Deming, ISO, Baldrige, and EFQM) which is borrowed from business is applicable in a higher education institution. Design/methodology/approach A meta‐evaluation methodology is used which emphasises Røvik's seven theoretical assumptions on how management ideas are spread in a given sector. Findings The findings of this paper reveal that that in many cases the current evidence of application of TQM is not compatible with the assumed criteria of the Røvik model. The quality systems are not often socially acceptable, they do not follow a clear philosophy and theory, do not show the productivity of institutions, are less progressive, have low harmonies, unrealistically publicized but in terms of individualized aspects there are some supportive successful case applied in non‐academic higher education. Originality/value The value and new message of this paper is its investigation of the fitness of TQM from a new perspective based on meta‐analysis.