Exploring the challenges to quality management system implementation in Malaysian residential projects

Quality is known to be essential to the success of the construction projects to ensure the successful delivery and building performance. The ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) is one of the standards that acts as an indicator in establishing a high-quality construction project. QMS also can be defined as a structured system that consistently maintains and improves the quality and performance of the construction project. However, quality issues still become critical issues in the construction industry, mainly in residential projects; yet research in this area remains inadequate. Moreover, there is a shortage of relevant studies focusing on challenges hindering the successful adoption of QMS in the construction industry despite the significance of QMS. Hence, this study aims to explore the key challenges faced among Malaysian construction companies that hinder them from effectively implementing QMS in construction. This study employs a quantitative research approach by using a questionnaire survey of Contractor G7 in Selangor that involves residential projects. The findings indicate that the key challenges to effective QMS implementation include resistance to change, lack of knowledge, an implementation process that is not straightforward, and lack of communication. Therefore, by addressing these challenges, this study contributes to highlighting the valuable findings to bridge the existing research gap and contribute to the successful implementation of QMS to improve performance and quality in the building sector. By effectively adopting QMS, construction companies are also able to enhance their overall performance and lay a strong foundation for sustainable development initiatives.