The TQM Journal

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore an “integrated lean TQM model for sustainable development” by synthesising the best practices of TQM in all functions of business and management.

Design/methodology/approach – Further to the paper “Integrated lean TQM model for global sustainability and competitiveness” published in The TQM Journal, Vol. 22 No. 2, 2010, the focus of this paper is to provide more practical examples with a view to developing a working model integrating ISO 9000, ISO 14001, OHSAS18001, and six-s. Furthermore, a new term called “5S+” is used to combine the two sets of well-proven 5-S and lean 5-S (L5S) audit checklists. The 5S+ approach will ensure subtanable development of most types of organizations in the contemporary business environment.

Findings – Since 1993, the author used the proprietary 5S+ audit checklists for training and consultancy in no less than ten countries with over 100,000 persons from around 8,000 organisations worldwide. Based on this rich experience, a new “integrated lean TQM model for sustainable development” was developed to provide a uniformed platform for organizations to implement ISO 9000, ISO 14001, OHSAS18001, and six-s more easily with good results.

Research limitations/implications – As the integrated lean TQM model has only been tested in Hong Kong, China, and Japan, interested academics and related parties are invited to join hands to validate this model for the sustainable development elsewhere.

Practical implications – The “integrated lean TQM model for sustainable development” proposed in this paper has shown some evidence to help organizations overcome the damages caused by the financial tsunami via the checklists and auditing.

Originality/value – Riding on the successes of two proprietary 50-point checklists, a new “integrated lean TQM model for sustainable development” was developed in this paper. When used properly, this model can become the pivotal point for sustainable development of organisations.