Abstract

This study investigated the current status and expectations of career counselling and developed a Data-Driven Total Quality Management (DDTQM) Model of Information System (IS) for recent graduates in Hubei, China. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative surveys, qualitative focus groups, and experimental validation. Research tools included status–expectation surveys, TAM-based IS questionnaires, focus group and expert interview protocols, and expert evaluation forms. Participants included 4,644 graduating students, 30 teachers/administrators, and 30 HR representatives, with stratified random sampling generating a sample of 397 students, 28 teachers/administrators, and 28 HR participants. Stakeholder expectations across five dimensions were significantly higher than the current status, which was only at a medium level. The DDTQM model was structured into four steps: quality objective setting, data collection and analysis, process management, and continuous improvement. Experimental comparison showed that the DDTQM-enhanced IS significantly outperformed the traditional system (p < .001), increasing stakeholder satisfaction. Expert interviews and evaluations confirmed the model’s high feasibility and effectiveness. This research enriches theory and practice by integrating data-driven decision-making with TQM principles to improve career counselling in higher education.

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