BDO boss says quality culture is the key to business success

BDO chief executive partner says cultivating a quality business culture is the key to success.

In today’s competitive landscape, businesses face the challenge of delivering exceptional products and services while managing risks effectively. A key factor in achieving this is the cultivation of a culture of quality within the company. By prioritising quality in day-to-day operations, businesses can reap a number of benefits while overcoming challenges.

At the core of a culture of quality lies a strong system of quality management. This system serves as the foundation upon which companies build their commitment to quality, guiding the behaviours and actions of every individual, ensuring consistent achievement of quality outcomes.

Cultivating a culture of quality brings several advantages to businesses. First and foremost, it enables the delivery of exceptional customer experience. By ingraining quality into every aspect of operations, it can become a defining characteristic of the brand, setting the business apart from competitors and enhancing its reputation by surpassing customer expectations.

Secondly, a culture of quality plays a vital role in risk management. Quality management processes and standards provide a framework for identifying and mitigating risks. By adhering to these standards and integrating quality into decision-making processes, businesses can minimise errors, improve efficiency and safeguard their clients.

Cultivating a culture of quality also encourages continuous improvement. Through the implementation of quality management systems, businesses establish a platform for ongoing learning, managing change and service improvement. By seeking feedback, conducting regular surveys and adopting best practices, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and consistently deliver high-quality outcomes.

Embedding a culture of quality is not without its challenges. It requires a commitment from every individual within the business to prioritise quality in their work, their actions and their behaviours. Shifting mindsets and making quality a shared responsibility requires broad communication, education and training initiatives.

Accountability is also essential. Regular assessment, surveys and audits allow you to monitor progress, identify areas for improvement and hold individuals accountable for their contribution to the culture of quality. Transparent reporting and recognition of achievements further reinforces quality throughout the company.

Cultivating a culture of quality is not a luxury; it is a hard-edge business issue and necessary for any business striving for success. By prioritising quality management and making it an integral part of day-to-day operations, businesses can consistently deliver exceptional customer service, mitigate risks, and continuously improve their offerings. The quality journey requires commitment, collaboration and a shared dedication to the cause. Are you with me?

Tony Schiffmann is the chief executive partner at BDO in Australia.