Application of the Principles of Total Quality Management in the Knowledge Formation

Abstract

The economy of developed countries is very muchdependent on the production of knowledge, distributionand application. According to foreign researchers andpractitioners, future is the age of knowledge, knowledgeorganizations, new economy that forces organizations tocreate new methods of work, competences, processes,management methods and the principles of strategic management.The scope of knowledge sectors (education,communications) increases very rapidly. Knowledge isobtained through thinking, experience, observation, informationchannels and other sources.Modern managerial science has introduced a lot ofnew terms, theories and the ways of problem solution.These developments have been stimulated by changingbusiness conditions. Thus, the main objective of organizationsis to increase both international and internationalcompetition. It should be noted that it is not only the peoplewho are the agents of change, but their knowledgeand abilities play a crucial role in this competitive world.New management methods are very useful in forecastingthe organization’s future, however, human resources areof the utmost importance in this process. Both human andfinancial capital open wide possibilities for furthergrowth and development. The intensification of theseagents under the conditions of growing globalization andcompetition is the main obligation for every organizationand its managerial staff.Seeking to survive in contemporary stiff competition,the organization is to concentrate its efforts on the developmentof human intellect and managerial practice. Onlyhighly qualified employees with considerable experienceare expected to feel and be able to overcome difficultiesand support their organization in the struggle for advance.This situation has called for special research inorder to ensure the quality of studies, the latter begun themain facet in knowledge development and dissemination.European and other countries have already introducedadvanced methods of total quality management.The aim of this research is to determine the main factorsinfluencing the quality of studies. The research wasconducted in the period of 2002-2004. The students ofBachelor and Master studies of Lithuania AgriculturalUniversity took part in the investigation. So called mindattack method was used for data collection. The methodof cause and consequence as well as Paret law were usedfor the generalization of the results.The investigation has helped to determine the level ofthe knowledge delivered to the students. Seeking betterresults in this field, total quality management should beintroduced. The introduction of the system of qualitymanagement according to ISO 9001 is the obligation motivatedby both clients’ requirements and the necessity toincrease the University’s service quality through the improvementof studies process management.