The relationship between total quality management practices, innovation and performance of architectural firms in Tanzania: a case of Architectural Firms

This empirical study examined the Relationship between Total Quality Management (TQM), Innovation and Performance of Architectural firms in Tanzania to develop understanding of the way architects use these tools but also it sought to understand the behaviors and characteristics of the successful and innovative architects. Data were collected using semi structured questionnaires and interviews. The empirical data were obtained from a survey of 34 Architectural firms in Tanzania encompassing both native (Local) Architectural firms and foreign firms. Different methods of data analysis were used. The study has established that few respondents less than 15% were unable to note the relationships between TQM, innovation and Architectural firm performance. The study found that TQN was significantly and positively related to both innovation and firm performance although it appeared that the relationship was greater against innovation. A significant relationship between firm performance and innovation performance was found, suggesting that achievement of one aspect of performance could impact the other. It was recommended to have Total Quality Management practices, mainly because it improves the production process through the development of work procedures, creating an atmosphere in which quality play an important role and defining responsibilities and duties.