An organizational approach that focuses on continuous improvement of processes, products, and services to meet or exceed customer expectations. TQM involves the entire workforce in a company and emphasizes a culture of quality.
An ongoing effort to enhance products, services, or processes incrementally, seeking efficiency, effectiveness, and overall quality improvement.
A Japanese term meaning “continuous improvement.” It is a philosophy that encourages small, incremental changes in processes and systems to achieve better quality and efficiency over time.
Small groups of employees within an organization who voluntarily meet to identify, analyze, and solve work-related problems to improve the overall quality of products or processes.
The measure of how well a product or service meets or exceeds customer expectations, a key focus of TQM in ensuring sustained customer loyalty.
The process of comparing an organization’s products, services, or processes against those of industry leaders or competitors to identify best practices and areas for improvement.
A set of techniques and tools for process improvement that seeks to eliminate defects and reduce variability in manufacturing and business processes.
A systematic process for translating customer needs and expectations into specific product or service features, ensuring that customer requirements are considered in the design and development phases.
Engaging all levels of employees in the decision-making process, problem-solving, and continuous improvement efforts to create a culture of shared responsibility for quality.
Extending the principles of employee involvement beyond specific projects to encompass a comprehensive commitment to quality improvement throughout the organization.