To study how can TQM practices be presented in a multi-dimensional model comprising both mechanistic and organic structures in Indian Companies

Total quality management (TQM) is not a unique single program, but rather a combination of many linked concepts. While TQM requires a companywide approach and support, the application of TQM can vary depending on the level of management and company function involved. This paper offers a three-dimensional perspective of TQM, including the philosophical, strategic, and measurement dimensions that together will comprise all essential concepts for TQM. Most management and literature today emphasise only the philosophical dimension of TQM. This paper suggests that all levels of management need to do more than embrace the philosophy of TQM and all three dimensions of TQM must be harmoniously blended and thoroughly considered for TQM to succeed. This paper examines the multidimensionality of TQM in association with organizational performance. The primary proposition examined in this study is that TQM embodies two different models of practices, mechanistic and organic, with each showing a different role in the association with two different types of performance, quality and innovation. Using empirical data gathered from 172 middle/senior managers in Indian companies, the findings support the proposition in pairing the mechanistic elements of TQM with quality performance and the organic elements with innovation performance. Further results, however, fail to support the proposition that organizations need to configure TQM practices in different ways for achieving different type of performance.