ontents
* 1 Definition
* 2 Origins
* 3 TQM in manufacturing
* 4 TQM and contingency-based research
* 5 TQM, just another Management fad?
* 6 References
* 7 See also
* 8 External links
Definition
TQM is composed of three paradigms:
* Total: Organization wide
* Quality: With its usual Definitions, with all its complexities (External Definition)
* Management: The system of managing with steps like Plan, Organize, Control, Lead, Staff, etc.
As defined by the International Organization for Standards (ISO):
"TQM is a management approach for an organization, centered on quality, based on the participation of all its members and aiming at long-term success through customer satisfaction, and benefits to all members of the organization and to society."
In Japan, TQM comprises four process steps, namely:
1. Kaizen ? Focuses on Continuous Process Improvement, to make processes visible, repeatable and measurable.
2. Atarimae Hinshitsu ? The idea that things will work as they are supposed to (e.g. a pen will write.).
3. Kansei ? Examining the way the user applies the product leads to improvement in the product itself.
4. Miryokuteki Hinshitsu ? The idea that things should have an aesthetic quality which is different from "atarimae hinshitsu" (e.g. a pen will write in a way that is pleasing to the writer.)
TQM requires that the company maintain this quality standard in all aspects of its business. This requires ensuring ...