Faculty note: Prof. Gurtu has peer-reviewed article published

UW-Green Bay, Chair of Business Administration and Associate Prof. Amulya Gurtu (Supply Chain Management) has a peer-reviewed article published. The paper titled “Prioritizing success factors for implementing total productive maintenance (TPM)” is published in the Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering.

Abstract: This study prioritizes the factors for the successful implementation of Total Productivity Maintenance (TPM). The technique used for prioritization is the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The commitment and involvement of the top management, i.e., the leadership team, is the most critical success factor in the successful implementation of TPM. Employee training is another vital factor. Top management should also encourage a culture favorable for information flow, equipment ownership, the involvement of people, and quality management throughout the organization. Manufacturing organizations interested in improving productivity through TPM implementation should first involve the leadership team and seek their full support and train all the employees in this philosophy. However, findings cannot be generalized for global application due to the inputs taken from experts in AHP from limited geography. Reducing production costs is a universal expectation of business leaders. TPM can be used as a long-term strategy to improve productivity by the organization. All employees have to be trained in this philosophy, and as part of the training and the implementation of TPM, they feel empowered and committed to the organization. This study has illustrated the use of AHP to prioritize success factors. Prioritization of success factors will help in strategy formulation by management for effective maintenance. It will help in improving the productivity and performance of the organization.