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Article
Publication date: 18 December 2020

Biju Augustine Puthanveettil, Shilpa Vijayan, Anil Raj and Sajan MP

This paper explores and interprets the linkage between total quality management (TQM) practices and organizational performance measures for improving the healthcare firms’…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper explores and interprets the linkage between total quality management (TQM) practices and organizational performance measures for improving the healthcare firms’ performance. Indian healthcare firms are aware of TQM practices and their benefits, but the awareness level varies among the firms and staff. The study looks into the effectiveness of quality awareness to meet quality performance in Indian hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire based on previous research was circulated among the managers and medical staff. The model linking TQM and organizational performance is analyzed with structural equation modelling and confirmed the hypotheses stated. Interpretations to improve hospital performance are made.

Findings

The study identified ten relevant TQM factors and confirmed their importance towards the improved organizational performance of Indian hospitals. Top management initiative, continuous process improvement and team work are the most contributing TQM factors. Differences in the awareness levels by the management staff and medical staff are attributed. The managers and medical staff are aware of the benefits of TQM towards firm performance, but it is to be improved further.

Research limitations/implications

Cross-validation and interpretation are affected due to the limited sample size. Longitudinal study is recommended to explore the individual hospital as specific cases. Larger sample size is suggested as an extended work to overcome the demographic and infrastructural limitations of the firms included.

Practical implications

The management is more interested in TQM, but there is lack of awareness among the staff. The quality awareness and customer focus by medical staff are the most weakly loaded factors, and the weaknesses can be remedied by the lead role by the hospital management in providing proper training and thereby improving the attitude of the medical staff.

Social implications

Effectiveness of hospital operations is highly dependent on customer focus. Properly communicated, committed and trained staff with good-quality awareness can better implement TQM and thereby improve hospital performance. Lead role by the management is very important, and the paper lists ways to attain these outcomes.

Originality/value

Very little is reported from the Indian healthcare sector linking TQM and outcome performance. The quality awareness, customer focus, communication and learning by the medical staff are to be improved, and the paper suggests ways to link TQM more effectively to improve the performance in hospitals. These findings may be useful to the managers, medical staff and researchers in healthcare to bring better results.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 33 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 April 2024

Saadet Güler, Ahmet Yavaş, Berk Özler and Ahmet Çagri Kilinç

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is popular for many applications including the production of photocatalysts. This paper aims to focus on developing of 3D-printed…

Abstract

Purpose

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is popular for many applications including the production of photocatalysts. This paper aims to focus on developing of 3D-printed photocatalyst-nano composite lattice structure. Digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing of photocatalyst composites was performed using photosensitive resin mixed with 0.5% Wt. of TiO2 powder and varying amounts (0.025% Wt. to 0.2% Wt.) of graphene nanoplatelet powder. The photocatalytic efficiency of DLP 3D-printed photocatalyst TiO2 composite was investigated, and the effects of nano graphite powder incorporation on the photocatalytic activity, thermal and mechanical properties were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods involve 3D computer-aided design modeling, printing parameters and comprehensive characterization techniques such as structural equation modeling, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and mechanical testing.

Findings

Results highlight successful dispersion and characteristics of TiO2 and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) powders, intricate designs of 3D-printed lattice structures, and the influence of GNPs on thermal behavior and mechanical properties.

Originality/value

The study suggests applicability in wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, showcasing the adaptability of 3 D printing in designing effective photocatalysts. Future research should focus on practical applications and the long-term durability of these 3D-printed composites.

Graphical abstract

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 30 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

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