Abstract
This paper presents the results of an empirical study on the relationship between quality management practices and competitive performance based on our framework to analyze the evaluation criteria for the Japanese Quality Award (JQA). Path analysis technique is applied to test the proposed framework using data gathered from 163 manufacturing plants, and the result indicates that the data fit well with the JQA model. Multiple regression analysis is used to determine the path coefficient, which is decomposed into direct and indirect effects. Competitive performance is significantly explained by process management. In addition, top management leadership, information analysis, customer relationship, and workforce management are found to indirectly relate with competitive performance. Our findings suggest that JQA model should be adopted as a framework for the self-innovation in business organizations to gain the competitive advantages.
