Advances in Modeling Methods and Applications for Quality Management Studies

CALL FOR PAPERS

Journal: The TQM Journal

Publisher: Emerald Publishing

Submission Opens: 15 November 2026

Submission Deadline: 15 January 2027

Introduction

Developing models that clarify the complex relationships between antecedents and quality outcomes — such as customer-perceived quality and firm performance — is essential for advancing both theory and practice in the field of quality management. This special issue aims to explore recent advancements in modeling approaches and their applications within quality management research.

While the focus is not limited to a single methodology, particular attention is given to structural equation modeling (SEM). This method offers distinct approaches for evaluating proposed models, emphasizing both explanation and prediction (e.g., CB-SEM and PLS-SEM). Recent developments highlight the potential of integrating multiple SEM approaches within multi-method designs, as well as incorporating complementary techniques such as necessary condition analysis (NCA) and combined importance–performance map analysis (cIPMA).

In addition, this special issue welcomes contributions that integrate traditional modeling techniques with emerging machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) methods. This includes advanced predictive analytics and hybrid approaches that combine SEM with ML to uncover complex data patterns. The convergence of established methodological frameworks with computational intelligence presents significant opportunities to enhance both explanatory power and predictive accuracy in quality management research.

Overall, this special issue seeks to demonstrate how advanced modeling methods can enrich quality management theory and practice by providing more robust analysis tools for explanation, prediction, replication, and continuous improvement.

Scope & Significance

This special issue addresses a critical need in quality management research — the development and application of sophisticated modeling tools that go beyond conventional approaches. As quality management increasingly intersects with digital transformation, AI adoption, and global market complexity, researchers require advanced methodological frameworks capable of capturing nuanced relationships and delivering actionable insights.

By bringing together contributions from diverse industries and countries, this special issue aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and push the boundaries of both quantitative methodology and quality management theory.

List of Topic Areas

Manuscripts are invited on themes including, but not limited to:

Applications of SEM and multi-method SEM approaches to explain and predict quality outcomes, including customers' and employees' quality perceptions and well-being
Alternative model comparison and selection techniques to support decision-making in quality management (e.g., predicting satisfaction, loyalty, and word-of-mouth)
The use of nonlinear effects, mediation, moderation, and moderated mediation to uncover complex relationships between quality and related constructs
Multi-group analysis and latent class techniques (e.g., FIMIX-PLS and PLS-POS) to examine differences in quality perceptions across countries, customer segments, or stakeholder groups
Development and validation of measurement scales for emerging quality constructs (e.g., AI service quality, platform quality, sustainability–quality integration, omnichannel quality experience)
Measurement-related issues in quality management research, including formative and reflective measurement models and higher-order constructs
Applications of necessary condition analysis (NCA) and combined importance–performance map analysis (cIPMA) to derive actionable, evidence-based quality management recommendations
Modeling approaches to predict outcomes of TQM, Lean Six Sigma, Industry 4.0 and 5.0 initiatives, AI implementation, new technology adoption, and related transformations
Integration of SEM with machine learning algorithms and other advanced modeling techniques to address quality management challenges
Comparative assessments of alternative modeling approaches for specific research questions in quality management
Other methodological advancements and innovative applications of modeling techniques in quality management across industries and countries

Guest Editors

Prof. Fabio Cassia University of Verona, Italy 📧 fabio.cassia@univr.it

Prof. Francesca Magno University of Bergamo, Italy 📧 francesca.magno@unibg.it

Prof. Miriana Ferrara University of Salerno, Italy 📧 mferrara@unisa.it

Prof. Christian M. Ringle Hamburg University of Technology, Germany & James Cook University, Australia 📧 c.ringle@tuhh.de

Key Deadlines

📅 Manuscript Submission Opens: 15 November 2026

⏰ Manuscript Submission Deadline: 15 January 2027

Submission Guidelines

Submissions are made through ScholarOne Manuscripts, the official submission platform of Emerald Publishing. Authors must strictly follow the journal's author guidelines.

When submitting, select "Advances in Modeling Methods and Applications for Quality Management Studies" from the special issue drop-down menu at the appropriate step in the submission process.

⚠️ Submitted articles must not have been previously published, nor should they be under consideration for publication elsewhere while under review for this journal.

For author guidelines and to submit your manuscript, visit the official journal page on the Emerald Publishing website and access via ScholarOne Manuscripts.

About the Journal

The TQM Journal, published by Emerald Publishing, is a leading peer-reviewed journal focused on total quality management, quality improvement strategies, and related methodologies. It serves as a global forum for academics, practitioners, and policymakers working to advance quality management theory and practice across diverse industries and contexts.

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