Total Quality Management (TQM) refers to management methods used to enhance
quality and productivity in business organizations.
TQM is a comprehensive
management approach that works horizontally across an organization, involving all departments and employees and extending backward and forward to include both suppliers and clients/customers.
1. Quality can and must be managed
Many companies have wallowed in a repetitive cycle of chaos and customer complaints. They believe that their operations are simply too large to effectively manage the level of quality. The first step in the
TQM process, then, is to realize there is a problem and that it can be
controlled.
2. Processes, not people, are the problem
If your process is causing problems, it won’t matter how many times you hire new employees or how many
training sessions you put them through. Correct the process and then train your people on these new procedures.
3. Don’t treat symptoms, look for the cure
If you just patch over the underlying problems in the process, you will never be able to fully reach your potential. If, for example, your shipping department is falling behind, you may find that it is because of holdups in
manufacturing. Go for the source to correct the problem.
4. Every employee is responsible for quality
Everyone in the company, from the workers on the line to the upper
management, must realize that they have an important part to play in ensuring high levels of quality in their products and services. Everyone has a customer to delight, and they must all step up and take
responsibility for them.
A
quality management system is only effective when you can quantify the results. You need to see how the process is implemented and if it is having the desired effect. This will help you set your goals for the future and ensure that every department is working toward the same result.
6. Quality improvements must be continuous
Total Quality Management is not something that can be done once and then forgotten. It’s not a management “phase” that will end after a problem has been corrected. Real
improvements must occur
frequently and continually in order to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.
7. Quality is a long-term investment
Quality management is not a quick fix. You can purchase
QMS software that will help you get things started, but you should understand that real results won’t occur immediately.
TQM is a long-term investment, and it is designed to help you find long-term success.
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