Operations research (OR) is the use of measurable interrelationships to explain the predictable links between measured phenomena and variable outcomes. Provides examples of OR techniques in school business management. (MLF)

Total Quality Management is a value-based, information-driven management process through which the minds and talents of people at all levels are applied fully and creatively to the organization's continuous improvement. The total quality view allows educators to see with a student's eye, to understand what the school and the world look like to…

Although the Total Quality Management approach has not met with universal acceptance in higher education, it is important to look beyond first impressions and direct translation to find insights in the methodology for college administration. It is also essential to apply the methods holistically, not in a fragmentary way. (MSE)

Describes movement toward quasi-market-based systems of resource allocation in Britain's universities. Considers the appropriateness of existing organizational structures to meet the cost and quality pressures generated by these systems. Draws on ideas from the total quality movement to analyze the implications for organization, control, and…

Total quality management is being introduced into courses and classroom methods in business schools and in higher education overall. Its introduction is facing some resistance from faculty. (SK)

The performance model of administration, not a resource model, is what is needed for colleges and universities to thrive in an environment of budget cuts and lowered public trust. Continuous improvement of the efficiency and effectiveness of operational processes demonstrates quality management principles such as those embodied in the Total…

Understanding the principles underlying the Total Quality Management approach is essential to using it effectively in higher education. These include establishing a customer-focused mission; creating a vision; improving the process continuously; using systematic analysis; promoting participation; and recognizing the college or university as a…

Experience at Rio Salado Community College (Arizona) has shown that an administrative issue should be examined first to determine whether application of the continuous improvement process is an appropriate use of resources. Areas truly in need of significant improvement should have priority. (MSE)

Focuses on the customer satisfaction element of Total Quality Management (TQM) in libraries, including definition of the terms customer and customer satisfaction, determining customer expectations, complaint systems, keeping customers, and empowerment of staff. Appendices list approaches libraries and other organizations have used to improve…

Application of total quality concepts in vocational education means beginning with students' characteristics, goals, and perceptions. Challenges include accepting a user-based and value-based definition of quality and recognizing the multifaceted needs of diverse students and the resulting complex definitions of quality. (JOW)

Institutional researchers and planners can play a key role in the application of Total Quality Management (TMQ) to institutional processes by exciting others about TMQ, exploring with others the possibilities of TMQ, clarifying the principles through application, and crystallizing the benefits through action. (Author/MSE)

The trend toward market orientation and related business strategies in higher education is examined in the Australian context, particularly in relation to changes in institutional administration such as coordinated decentralization and to the Total Quality Management movement. (MSE)

The school design process depends on open communication and the participation of various constituencies or customers. Today's architects use a variety of strategies to make sure they build the schools communities want. Describes approaches used by three architects. (MLF)

A timetable process helps students assess the feasibility of completion of research papers as well as develop a working outline. Students also develop performance appraisal criteria for peer evaluation. The procedure develops verbal-communicative, problem-solving, and team-building skills. (SK)

Case studies of five New Zealand organizations adopting learning organization initiatives highlight crucial limitations of the debate over skill needs in the contemporary workplace. Findings reveal a new paradigm of critical organizational characteristics and job skills needed in this uncertain environment. (SK)