Integrated System
An integrated system, incorporating all aspects of a company’s operations, is essential within the Total Quality Management strategy.
An effective integrated system takes account of how the micro-processes used within the company link together into larger processes and then examines how these align with the overall business strategy.
Key to achieving this is the integration of management systems which will serve to reduce duplication and increase efficiency.
This establishes a single source of truth (SSOT) and means that everyone can access the same data within a streamlined system.
The integrated management system is designed to control a number of aspects of operation such as quality, health and safety and environmental, even when each is guided by individual standards.
There are many commonalities between the standards and within the integrated system these are merged, resulting in tangible benefits to the company. These include:
Enhanced business performance
With more streamlined procedures and the application of continual improvement techniques, business performance is enhanced across all functions with a concomitant increase in productivity.
Reduced costs
The de-duplication of functions mean that the costs and time required to operate and maintain the management system is considerably reduced, with attendant savings.
More efficient management
An integrated management system removes the need for multiple audits and management reviews, therefore freeing up senior management resources for other tasks.
Simplification
The rationalisation of the management system makes it less complex and more coherent, helping to sharpen focus on key business objectives and leading to growth.
Effectively, the integrated system approach horizontally interconnects departments, with all staff fully understanding company policies, quality standards, objectives and processes. This approach strengthens the company and enhances its competitiveness in the marketplace.