What does Total Quality Management focus on in an organization?

Total Quality Management (TQM) is an approach that emphasizes a comprehensive and organization-wide focus on continuous improvement in quality to meet or exceed customer expectations. The essence of TQM is to manage the entire organization with the goal of improving processes, products, services, and the culture in which the organization operates. This holistic perspective ensures that every part of the organization, from leadership to operations and customer service, aligns towards achieving high-quality standards and enhancing customer satisfaction.

In this framework, various methodologies and practices are employed, such as employee involvement, process management, and a strong focus on customer feedback, allowing organizations to be more responsive to customer needs and preferences. By engaging all employees in the pursuit of quality and fostering a customer-centric culture, TQM seeks to build long-term success through customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Other choices, while they might be elements or consequences of a quality improvement strategy, do not encapsulate the core philosophy of TQM. For instance, while enhancing employee performance, increasing production efficiency, and minimizing costs may contribute to quality improvement, they are not the primary focus of TQM itself. The central tenet remains the holistic management of the organization to consistently meet and even exceed customer needs.