The evolution of a continuous quality improvement process in a university setting: a working model for consideration

This article describes how the Auburn University Economic Development Institute (EDI) designed, implemented and evaluated a continuous quality improvement process within a major university. In contrast to what many total quality management authorities advocate, this continuous quality improvement process was planned and initiated in one university-wide programme, not the total university. This case study reaffirmed findings and advice by numerous quality improvement authorities: do not circumvent the essential stages required to develop a systematic process. The first section of this article describes four essential stages, required to develop a quality improvement process within a traditional university environment: (1) preparing to initiate continuous quality improvement, (2) getting to know continuous quality improvement, (3) scheme for continuous improvement and (4) new initiatives and critical examination. The second section of the article discusses transformational leadership requirements which buil...

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