Total Quality Management
Total Quality Management
Is a structured system for managing the quality of construction products, processes, and resources of an organization in order to satisfy its internal and external clients, as well as its suppliers. Its main objective is sustained client satisfaction through continuous improvement, which is accomplished by systematic methods for problem solving techniques, breakthrough achievement, and sustenance of good results (standardization).
There is no standard or hard-line procedure for implementing TQM. Every construction company can practice TQM in a manner it sees best for its organization. However, a construction company’s TQM program must always be structured and internally standardized, i.e., everyone within an organization must practice TQM in the structured manner set forth by management
Total Quality Management is a description of the culture, attitude and organization of a company that strives to provide clients with products and services that satisfy their needs. The culture requires quality in all aspects of the company's operations, with processes being done right the first time and defects and waste eradicated from operations.
TQM is a management philosophy that seeks to integrate all organizational functions (marketing, finance, design, engineering, and production, customer service, etc.) to focus on meeting client's needs and organizational objectives.
TQM is the foundation for activities, which include:
- Commitment by senior management and all employees
- Meeting client requirements
- Reducing development cycle times
- Just In Time/schedule control
- Improvement teams
- Reducing construction costs
- Systems to facilitate improvement
- Line Management ownership
- Employee involvement and empowerment