The effective maintenance of quality management systems in the construction industry

Proposes that the improvement of an existing quality management system (QMS) through flexibility and innovation will increase product and service quality, which will in turn enhance and advance the organization’s business objective. Explores the “segmentalist” and “integrative” concepts within the context of construction firms. Findings from a research project suggest that these should be removed from or implemented into the organization where necessary. Believes that organizations must adopt the “integrative” approach which looks ahead into the challenges of the future rather than the “segmentalist” approach which is contented with past accomplishments. Suggests that a corporate renaissance must be created within the organization to take on these challenges and to implement change and innovation. It is therefore necessary to develop the humanistic factors and a “participatory management” environment. However, in so doing, the technical aspects are also of importance and should not be totally ignored. These are collectively the key elements to maintaining a quality management system effectively.