Strategies and success factors for overcoming challenges in TPM implementation in Indian manufacturing industry

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to evaluate the challenges before Indian manufacturing organizations for adapting to proactive total productive maintenance (TPM) initiatives. The aim of this research is to critically examine the factors influencing the implementation of TPM practices in the Indian manufacturing industry, and to devise an overall maintenance strategy for overcoming obstacles to successful TPM implementation. Design/methodology/approach - The study focuses on systematic identification of obstacles in TPM implementation and working out success factors towards improving manufacturing performance in Indian industry through strategic TPM initiatives. Findings - The study highlights the strong potential of TPM implementation initiatives in affecting organizational performance improvements. The paper reveals that implementing TPM is by no means an easy task, which is heavily burdened by organizational, cultural, behavioral, technological, operational, financial, and departmental barriers. Research limitations/implications - The study has been conducted in Indian manufacturing organizations to formulate the critical success factors and enablers for overcoming obstacles to successful TPM implementation with regard to its preparedness to face global challenges. Practical implications - The study stresses the need for improving the synergy between the maintenance function and other organizational quality improvement initiatives in the organizations, to establish maintenance as a competitive strategy for meeting the challenges of a highly competitive environment. Originality/value - The study highlights the difficulties faced by Indian manufacturing organizations in their attempt to implement TPM initiatives in order to improve organizational efficiency.