Generative and case study research in quality management

Abstract

Argues that because of the many inherent weaknesses of traditional empirical research, generative and case study approaches may be more useful methodologies for conducting research on quality management. Outlines ways in which the generative research model builds conceptual frameworks from the data provided by the target population itself in conjunction with a review of the literature, while the case study approach provides a much deeper and richer insight to the quality management practices of the company being investigated. Discusses the benefits and difficulties associated with case study research.

Toward improved employment relations practices of casual employees in the New South Wales registered clubs industry

“…Therefore, our data were produced from 42 (qualitative) depth interviews and 384 (quantitative) questionnaire surveys in a sample of metropolitan and regional clubs in NSW. Following Simon, Sohal, and Brown (1996), the research was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, we conducted fortytwo nonstructured interviews of both employees and managers within the club sector.…”

Strategies for the successful implementation of workflow systems within healthcare: a cross case comparison

“…Each proposition is built upon a theory of what is to be examined. These theoretical propositions define the scope of the study and provide the framework for case analysis [10]. The propositions were drawn from the literature and address the multiple phenomena identified as having a major impact on the implementation of workflow technologies.…”

“…Each table shell represents the area of data to be collected to fully investigate a specified theoretical proposition. This approach to data collection evolves from a generative strategy focused on qualitative research methods [10]. In a generative approach, concepts are generated and elaborated to construct the framework for data collection.…”

“…Specifically workflow systems perform the routing of work in the proper sequence, provide access to data and documents required by workers, and track process execution. Workflow systems are used to design and define workflow processes, the environment in which those processes are executed, and the set of interfaces to users and applications involved in the workflow process [10]. The implementation of computerized workflow systems to support the collection and dissemination of patient information has been an area of focus in healthcare for many years.…”

“…Several reasons for this might exist. Such reasons include a small sample base available for such studies and confidentiality issues [10]. Organizations may also be reluctant to share specifics about their workflow design if the system is viewed as providing a competitive edge in the marketplace or the organization incurs negative results [11].…”