Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of TQM dimensions on the operational
performances of the pharmaceutical manufacturing plant operating in Pakistan. Data for this
study was collected using self-administered questionnaires that were distributed to 250
respondents of different pharmaceutical companies. The target populations for study are plant
technical managers, operational managers (production managers), quality control & assurance
managers and other senior experts who are assumed to provide the most relevant information
ofthe respective companies. Through comprehensive literature review, seven critical success
factors of TQM that are relevant to the pharmaceutical industries were identified. Using
correlation & regression analysis the relationship between TQM variables and operational
performance measures (Quality, Cost, and Delivery) was investigated. The Correlation
analysis reveals that there is strong relationship between TQM dimensions and operational
performances of pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. The outcome of regression
analysis indicates that supplier quality management, continuous improvement process
management, product design and top management support have significant contribution to at
least one ofthe operational performance measures. People management, customer focus does
not appear to contribute to higher performance. This study offers pharmaceutical companies
and their managers a better understanding of the relationship and impact that some of TQM
elements have on the performance oftheir operations. Thus, managers will get an opportunity
to take better & more effective decisions about the implementation of TQM. Due to nature of
the study, the sample size is small and performance measures were based on the perceptions
of respond, therefore generalization should be made with caution
