Quality, Strategy and Structural Configuration

Quality programmes have become an increasingly popular arena for organizational and managerial practice. Some attribute this growing focus to the notion that quality programmes are, and will be, key competitive determinants of the 1990s. Yet, relatively little scientific knowledge can be found in the literature. Reviews and summarizes nine quality programmes. The comparative review of the studies supports the otion that while diverse visions, guiding philosophies, and implementation practices are utilized, the key features that seem fundamental to quality programmes are their strategic character and structural configuration. Identifies and discusses directions for future research.