Inspiring leaders towards a higher purpose: a new quality era

The discussion amongst leaders and quality professionals as to whether effective quality management practices can be linked to higher profit has been the subject of much research and debate over many years. However, a new debate is growing momentum; that is whether “purpose” should come before profit. The competitive landscape is such that it is forcing leaders to embrace complex and challenging issues relating to legislative, social and environmental factors. The ability to sustain and compete in this landscape demands a more holistic approach to strategy. There is a danger that given these pressures impetus towards quality management declines. This paper explores the principles and practices of strategic quality management and the key role that these capabilities can play in addressing these challenges and argues that there is never a more appropriate time to elevate quality management to a strategic level. The author uses an interactive research study conducted with businesses in order to develop and report the findings