Re: TQM, or Taking my own advice

[Karen Steele <karen -at- BILBO -dot- SUITE -dot- COM>]

 > I don't know a lot about TQM (read: if someone else does, please post
 >  what you know), BUT it seems to me to be a fad, kind of like the
  >  business equivalent of pet rocks.  You do it 'cause everyone else is.
  > Hence, no buy-in.  Also hence, no real follow through.  All that
  > happens is people have to jump through a bunch of hoops for a while,
   >then management gets bored and goes on to the business equivalent of a
  > Barbie Town House.  Any advocates out there who want to change my
   > mind?

TQM is NOT a fad.  It was developed partly in response to the push to put
 quality back into
the American product.  It is a methodology (procedures) that if followed can
 ensure that
most of the bases are covered. TQM forces the team to identify a goal, develop a
 task list
for accomplishing that goal, and a test to be sure that the original goal was
 met.


I have been involved  with TQM at three different companies (I'm a  contractor).
  Methods
of implementation and results varied based on the committment and the dedication
 of
management and the team.  It CAN be very effective.

If TQM is treated as the fad du jour in your firm, you might want to consider
 the message
that is sending to you and your customers.   Work of the highest quality is a
 great
achievement.   Being a part of the team responsible for such work is very
 rewarding.


Too many entities slide by with work that is acceptable, never outstanding.
 Schlepping
along to get along  brings us all down.


I am very dedicated to the premise of quality circles and quality teams.  It's
 one way we
can assure that we're doing everything possible  to produce the best product.