TQM: A Historical Perspective

Quality management systems have developed through quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA), and total quality control (TQC) systems to total quality management (TQM) systems. We will briefly outline each of these systems.

 Quality control:-

Quality control is about defect detection by using post-production inspection procedures. Statistical quality control methods are used while inspecting the finished goods. The main focus is on the product - i.c.. what is wrong with the product (or part). Procedures such as acceptance sampling, control by attributes, control charts, and control by variables are typically used by the QC supervisors while controlling the quality of goods manufactured. 

The extent of employee involvement is minimal. Only a few supervisors from the QC department are involved in quality control activities. It takes actually a short time to install a QC system. However, such systems do not help identify problems.

 Quality assurance:-

Quality assurance systems are concerned with producing as per design specifications and emphasize defect prevention. Quality is built into the system by using production and operations management principles. Statistical process control techniques are used to monitor the procedure by allowing random variations and reducing non-random variations. The main focus is on the procedure - i.e., what is wrong with the process which manufactures the product. 

Quality system standards (such as ISO 9000) are adopted to assure quality in the process. ISO 9000 is an International standard that shows how an organization can establish, document, and sustain an effective quality system. It helps demonstrate to the customer that the organization is committed to quality and has the capability to meet their requirements. It takes between 6 months to 1 year to install the QA system.

For more such content, don't forget to follow my FB page 

Total quality control:-

Total quality control systems are about reducing costs through continual improvement. Here quality is organized into the system. Problem areas are identified and problem-solving techniques are used widely during the continuous improvement cycle. Performance is checked with the help of the Cost Of Quality (COQ) system, Identifying and removing waste. These efforts improve the product quality. In TQC systems we have more involvement within the type of various quality circles working towards improving the processes. . It takes between 1 to 3 years to install TQC system.

Total quality management (TQM)

TQM has a strong philosophical base that incorporates several important concepts of TQC systems. Management efforts are oriented towards the achievement of complete customer satisfaction by meeting or exceeding their expectations.

TQM is a management framework that believes an organization can build long-term success by concentrating on improving quality. TQM involves all members of an organization, from low-level workers to top executives. Implementing TQM can be challenging, but there are many resources available to help.

For more such content, don't forget to follow my FB page