The Influence of “Soft” and “Hard” Total Quality Management (TQM) Practices on Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) in Jordanian Manufacturing Companies

Abstract

Numerous studies have been separately carried out on total quality management (TQM) and total productive maintenance (TPM). This paper examines the influence of softand hard TQM practices on TPM implementation level at manufacturing companies in Jordan using survey data and empirical research methodology. The results indicate that four softTQM practices, top management leadership, training, workforce management, and customer focus, significantly and positively affect TPM implementation level. The results also show that three hard TQM practices, continuous improvement, information feedback, and process management, significantly and positively affect TPM implementation level. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]