Managers need to show support
In a recent survey the CQI found that managers do not always support quality improvement programmes. When asked, 'what do you think would improve the effectiveness of your employees participating in improvement activities?, most answered 'a commitment from top management'.
The research was carried out among CQI and GOAL/QPC members at the end of December 2006. The results show there is concern that senior managers might not be prepared to make the effort of committing to business improvement techniques, and too many saw a quality improvement programme as a cost reduction exercise.
Frank Steer, CEO of the CQI, said: 'Top management and commitment, or rather lack of it, is not just an issue in the UK. It is common throughout Europe and America. There is often a massive culture change necessary within an organisation to achieve the mindset that quality really counts, and managers need to set aside the time and resources to ensure that it is properly addressed, and in so doing demonstrate commitment.'
The research found that there were other factors which would be influential in increasing improvement activites among employees. These were:
- allocating time and resources
- providing continuous training and staff development
- making employees aware of the benefits of improvement activities
- creating a culture change in the organisation
- incorporating an employee reward and empowerment scheme
- creating a more productive and efficient organisation
- improving communication
- providing a more stable workplace