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Exploring the use of operational excellence methodologies in the era of COVID-19: perspectives from leading academics and practitioners

Olivia McDermott (College of Science and Engineering, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland)
Jiju Antony (Professor of Quality Management, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK)
Jacqueline Douglas (Liverpool Business School, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK)

The TQM Journal

ISSN: 1754-2731

Article publication date: 25 February 2021

Issue publication date: 14 December 2021

1163

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the results of a study carried out by the authors in the form of research interviews on the topic: “Exploring the use of operational excellence methodologies in the era of COVID-19.”

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative interview approach was utilized by interviewing a panel of leading academics and practitioners who are familiar with operation excellence methodologies.

Findings

Operational excellence methodologies are proven and can be utilized in pandemic situations to improve efficiency in the healthcare system and preparedness for pandemics.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of this research was that most of the interviewees who participated in this study came from Europe, North America, South America and Asia, representing four continents. It would have been better to have different views from other continents such as Australia and Africa. Also, the interviews were short and at a high level. There is an opportunity for further study and analysis.

Practical implications

Operational excellence methodologies are proven and can be utilized in pandemic situations to improve efficiency in the healthcare system and preparedness for pandemics.

Originality/value

The paper provides an excellent resource for those people to get an insight into the value of the application of operations excellence methodologies in pandemic situations to aid healthcare process improvement and aid public and patient safety.

Keywords

Citation

McDermott, O., Antony, J. and Douglas, J. (2021), "Exploring the use of operational excellence methodologies in the era of COVID-19: perspectives from leading academics and practitioners", The TQM Journal, Vol. 33 No. 8, pp. 1647-1665. https://doi.org/10.1108/TQM-01-2021-0016

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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