Comparative Study between Total Quality Management and Six Sigma Case Study: Altawfig Soap Factory (Omdurman- Sudan)

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study the major Total Quality Management (TQM) problems, as well as to extract how the Six Sigma system can help solving them. In recognition of the failures experienced by a significant number of business firms applying the limited concept of Total Quality Management Six Sigma has revolutionized the world of business and has presented a new measure of success in customer satisfaction and quality. Six Sigma uses an array of statistical and analytical tools to apply a data-driven, rootcause analysis to existing processes to minimize variation and aim for reducing defects to nearly elimination. The literature provides a perception of the historical development of quality management and enables an understanding of the primary elements of which TQM consists. It also provides a review of some of Six Sigma literature, as well as takes a closer look at the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control, problem solving model of Six Sigma. The results of this research reflect the problems which appeared during the implementation of the primary TQM elements on the case study (Altawfig Soap Factory). The study, after covering the six sigma solutions, recommends applying Six Sigma due to its concentration on customer satisfaction, product design, departmental integration with quality, effective trainings (belts system), process control and improvement and Quality system improvements which expands to encompass all business options and adopt totality further than Total Quality Management