Despite the economic blues, Hong Kong companies are not wavering in their attempts to implement total quality management (TQM), says David Sun Tak-kei, chairman of the HKMA Quality Award organising committee.
'This is reflected by the continued enthusiastic participation of local companies and the consistently high quality of entrants. We are encouraged to see that many businesses have persevered in integrating TQM into their operations, which is positive for the long-term sustainable development of Hong Kong into a regional financial and commercial hub,' Dr Sun said.
Organised by the Hong Kong Management Association, the HKMA Quality Award evaluates entrants based on the United States' Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award judging criteria.
Applicable to all businesses, regardless of geographic location or scale, entrants are judged on leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, workforce focus, process management and results.
'The implementation of TQM is helpful for Hong Kong companies to expand sales overseas and on the mainland,' Dr Sun said. 'The Malcolm Baldrige criteria provide comprehensive guidelines for companies to integrate TQM effectively.
'For instance, the criteria offer advice on the internal operation of an organisation, such as how to enhance flexibility and efficiency in process management and how to approach employee development.
'As far as the external operation of an organisation is concerned, the criteria provide guidance for a company to become more flexible and adaptable to the ever-changing market environment and requirements of its customers.'