Total Quality Management Overview

TQM evolved from quality assurance methods, which emphasize quality by design. TQM is a management philosophy that focuses on customer satisfaction, since customers define quality. Efforts to improve quality are integrated throughout each stage of the industrial cycle. Leadership is responsible for creating and executing a strategic TQM plan, as well as establishing an open company culture that involves and empowers all employees. There are many methods that can be used to measure, analyze, and implement TQM. A company can be successful only if its customers are satisfied. TQM helps companies stay competitive by establishing a culture focused on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. After taking this class, users should understand the importance of TQM and be prepared to contribute to total quality efforts in the workplace.