The Total Quality Management philosophy: The Deming's principles in two Portuguese institutions of high education

Abstract

Usually, the process of TQM is implemented in the industry and in services through the adoption of a group of principles. Deming that presented a set of principles to improve the quality process in a organisation. The study applied some of the Deming’s principles in two Portuguese institutions of high education. The objective was to understand if the Deming’s principles could be applied. The results showed a group of possible difficulties and benefits and concluded that can be implemented. Their correct application could allow them to evolve from quality to excellence.