Total Quality Management (TQM)

The goal of total quality management (TQM) is for an organization to realize continuous improvement in its business processes for the benefit of its end customers. These processes involve the procurement of material, the production process, and the distribution of final goods to the customers. As an integrative process, TQM requires the use of both information and human resources to foster continuous improvement. It may also be considered the philosophy supporting modern supply chain management. Since today's firms often find it advantageous to establish flexible contractual relationships, as opposed to inflexible mergers, it is important for potential supply chain partners to demonstrate a mutual commitment to raise quality. Despite a lack of agreement on a precise definition, TQM has been used as a clarion call ...