| Abstract: | One of the key elements of a total quality management (TQM) policy is the assurance of an adequate supply of materials and components. The objective of this paper is twofold. Firstly, it analyses the relationship between different purchasing system variables and supplier quality assurance practices. Secondly, it explores both the connections between supplier quality assurance practices and other quality assurance practices used for internal processes, and examines the relationship of such practices with supply operational results. Different hypotheses are tested using data obtained from a sample of 152 Spanish automotive component suppliers. This data show clear evidence of the importance of product, supplier and company characteristics and highlights the importance of a company-wide commitment to the application of quality assurance principles. |
