Graph theory and matrix approach for performance evaluation of TQM in Indian industries

Purpose Once the decision is taken to implement total quality management (TQM) in any organization, achieving TQM is a journey. It takes significant effort over an extended period of time. Seeks to propose a TQM performance index. Design/methodology/approach An industry TQM performance index evaluates and ranks the various industries practicing TQM for a given period of time. Uses graph theory and a matrix approach. Findings The index is obtained from industry performance function, which is useful for identification and comparison of the different industries for their TQM performance. If the TQM evaluation is done correctly, the evaluation will present the profile of the organization to different audience, i.e. the customers, governments, other industries, funding agencies and public. Originality/value The model suggested for evaluation presents a logical approach to rank the industries and other organization practicing TQM or other quality program.