An Empirical Investigation of Total Quality Management in Libya: A Proposed Guideline of Implementation

Rapid socio-economic and technological changes have urged the implementation of new approaches to procure construction projects. Total Quality Management (TQM) is one of the approaches that contribute towards ensuring that projects are being delivered to the stakeholder requirements. This study identifies critical success factors (CSFs) that affect the implementation of TQM in the Libyan Construction Industry (LCI) and develops guidelines which help companies implement and maintain quality management systems. To achieve these aims, the research employed both quantitative and qualitative methods. Based on a thorough review of literature, a questionnaire was developed and distributed to 200 managers. Data from 130 completed questionnaires were then analysed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), which reveals the internal structure of the data in a way that explains the dimensions of TQM implementation in LCI. The results identify five reliable and valid TQM dimensions, namely organisation management, communication to improve quality, training and development, employee involvement and recognition, and culture. Supported by relevant literature and interviews with a number of managers, they provide the basis for developing the guideline for successful implementation of TQM in Libyan construction companies. DOI: 10.4018/jisss.2012010103 International Journal of Information Systems in the Service Sector, 4(1), 40-52, January-March 2012 41 Copyright © 2012, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited. able to spend a substantial amount for the development of the construction industry. The Ministry of Housing report 1986, maintained Libya from a shortage of skilled labour in the construction industry. The local contractors did not possess the technical, administrative and financial capabilities to undertake medium or large projects. There are many foreign construction companies (such as Italian, Chinese, French and Korean) operating within the country on various projects ranging from large infrastructure projects to the local road projects. The Libyan government has launched one of the largest public infrastructure investment programs in the world The Libyan Housing and Infrastructure Board (LHIB), has funds amounting to US$ 50 billion for programs to improve housing, roads and bridges. Libyan industries operates in four main regions which are influenced by social tribalism and nepotism, fluctuations in oil revenues and foreign workers. Political ideology has played a significant role in determining the current status of foreign labour coming from high unemployment countries such as Egypt, Korea, Pakistan were paid low wages and as a result, local citizens abandoned working in the construction industry and the industry became dominated by foreign labourers.