kokonaislaadunvarmistusta

Kokonaislaadunvarmistus, often abbreviated as TQM (Total Quality Management), is a management philosophy that emphasizes continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. It originated in Japan after World War II and has since been adopted globally by organizations across various sectors. TQM focuses on involving all employees in the pursuit of quality, from the design stage to the delivery of a product or service.

The core principles of TQM include a strong focus on the customer, employee involvement at all levels, process-centered thinking, integrated systems, strategic and systematic approach, fact-based decision making, and continuous improvement. The ultimate goal is to achieve long-term success through customer satisfaction. This approach requires a significant shift in organizational culture, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures to a more collaborative and empowered environment.

Implementation of TQM typically involves several steps, such as defining quality standards, identifying customer needs, establishing quality control processes, collecting and analyzing data, and implementing corrective actions. Tools like process mapping, statistical process control (SPC), and cause-and-effect diagrams are often employed. The success of TQM is not solely dependent on the tools used but on the commitment of top management and the active participation of every individual within the organization. It is a journey of ongoing learning and adaptation rather than a one-time project.