What is the primary focus of Total Quality Management (TQM)?

The primary focus of Total Quality Management (TQM) is customer satisfaction. TQM is a comprehensive approach that seeks to improve the quality of products and services through ongoing refinements in response to continuous feedback. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, organizations aim to meet or exceed customer expectations, which is essential for long-term success and competitiveness.

With TQM, the belief is that happy customers lead to repeat business, positive word-of-mouth, and an overall enhanced reputation. This customer-centric philosophy drives organizations to implement quality initiatives, understand customer needs, and foster a culture where quality is everyone's responsibility.

In contrast, while product manufacturing, cost reduction, and employee training are important aspects of operational excellence, they serve more as tools or means to achieve the overarching goal of satisfying customers. A focus solely on manufacturing or cost could compromise quality, while employee training is a crucial component that supports the overall strategy but does not directly encapsulate the essence of TQM. Thus, prioritizing customer satisfaction is what truly defines the core focus of Total Quality Management.