An empirical analysis of the competitive dimensions of quality performancein the automotive supply industry

This paper examines the competitive dimensions of quality for first tier su ppliers in the automotive industry. A theoretically relevant set of quality variables is identified from the literature. The results of a factor analy sis show that quality is a two dimensional construct in the automotive supp ly industry. The core dimensions of quality are: product quality, which is primarily focused on design superiority and performance of the physical pro duct; and service quality, which comprises both pre- and post-sale service. The study reveals that both product quality and service quality are relate d to overall firm performance: regardless of whether asset based investment based, or market based measures are used.