Total quality management
TQM is an integrative philosophy of management for continuously improving the quality of products and processes.
TQM functions on the premises that the quality of products and processes is the responsibility of
everyone who is involved with the creation or consumption of the
products or services offered by an organization. In other words, TQM
capitalizes on the involvement of management, workforce, suppliers, and
even customers, in order to meet or exceed customer expectations.
Considering the practices of TQM as discussed in six empirical studies,
Cua, McKinney, and Schroeder (2001) identified the nine common TQM
practices as cross-functional product design, process management, supplier quality management, customer involvement, information and feedback, committed leadership, strategic planning, cross-functional training, and employee involvement.
