The equity factor: a vital part of the quality equation

Equitable practices of fair and just treatment are vital in promoting quality education and permeate Deming′s 14 points of quality management. When inequitable practices exist, they have a negative impact on worker motivation, quality of work performance and job satisfaction. Inequitable practices can be both overt and covert with lose‐lose confrontations resulting for both worker and administrator. Hidden inequities violate the sense of fair and just treatment which is deeply embedded in our culture. Administrator actions which run counter to the concept of fairness and justice cause worker discontent and detract from quality workmanship. Fusing together the tenets of equity theory and Deming′s 14 points, administrators can provide equal ratios of inputs to outcomes in the workplace, increase worker morale, and provide fair and equitable treatment.