Quality management practices in the US homebuilding industry

Abstract

Purpose

Limited research has been conducted on quality management practices in the US homebuilding industry. The purpose of this paper is to establish which practices are actually applied, to what extent and to discuss how quality management can be best advanced in the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review is conducted on the application of quality in the construction and US homebuilding industry, followed by the analysis of 22 case studies of US homebuilders to provide details of quality implementation.

Findings

While quality management continues to expand and be adopted by industries globally, its application in the homebuilding industry is limited and immature. While quality management systems and quality award criteria are making an impact, the key focus is still being heavily placed on inspection processes, with limited use of structured and advanced quality approaches. Senior managers still see quality as a peripheral issue and are not convinced of its value. There is a need for leaders in the industry to embrace quality and to adopt consistent company‐wide systematic and strategic‐based approaches.

Originality/value

Limited research has been conducted into the application of quality management in the homebuilding industry. This study of 22 leading homebuilders provides insights into the actual practices of quality management. Recommendations are provided as a guide for future direction for quality in the industry.

Citation

Leonard, D. (2010), "Quality management practices in the US homebuilding industry", The TQM Journal, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 101-110. https://doi.org/10.1108/17542731011009658