EXPLORING THE APPLICATION OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES WITHIN A MILITARY TRAINING UNIT

Abstract

This research explored trainers and training officers’ experiences regarding the application of quality management principles to ensure effective quality management of training within a training unit of the South African Army. A qualitative, phenomenological research design was used with semi-structured individual interviews held with nine participants. Findings revealed that leaders did not have the necessary knowledge to support quality management of training within a training unit in the military effectively. Soldiers responsible for training were not involved in quality management decisions. Inadequate leadership support, lack of people involvement and the absence of a strong quality culture resulted in ineffective decision-making for quality improvement of training in the training unit under study. Findings point towards the importance of quality management principles to ensure effective quality management within training.