Implementation of quality programmes in developing countries: a Fiji Islands case study

Quality systems and, in particular, total quality management (TQM), seek co ntinuous improvement in the quality performance of all processes, products and services of an organization. While these ideas are not new in developed nations, there is little literature available on quality systems and TQM i mplementation in developing countries. This paper reports on the findings o f quality systems and TQM implementation in a few developing countries and focuses on the key issues of quality programmes implementation in Fiji. Fou r Fijian companies were selected for this research study. They were in the telecommunications, manufacturing and shipping industries. The following is sues were addressed: the implementation processes; the difficulties encount ered; and the results achieved. Finally, this paper addresses the question of what lessons can be learned from the experience of these organizations.