Development of an integrated TQM‐based system for university accreditation requirements

The primary objective of this research was to develop a computer‐based system to assist universities in the engineering accreditation process through the application of total quality management methodologies such as quality function deployment, the analytical hierarchy process and statistical process control. The first step was to develop a conceptual model which integrated the three methodologies as the foundation for the subsequent development of a prototype computer‐based system. This resulting system allows user to plan and organise course content with consideration of ABET Engineering Criteria 2000 Criterion 3 requirements. The system also provides users with the capability of varying the priorities of desired educational outcomes. The users can then observe corresponding changes in course content to meet these objectives in order of their priority. This system represents an initial step toward developing a suite of computer applications to support the accreditation process.