What is a core aim of Total Quality Management (TQM)?

• A. A focus on quality 100% of the time with continuous improvement
• B. Solely quick production
• C. Reliance on external audits only
• D. Short-term cost reduction

Answer: (A)

Total Quality Management centers on embedding quality in every process and pursuing ongoing improvement across the organization. The aim is to deliver quality 100% of the time by preventing defects and involving all employees in improving how work is done. This creates a culture of continuous enhancement that customers notice through better products and services, and it tends to yield long‑term benefits such as fewer defects, less rework, and lower overall costs.

Squeezing production speed can undermine quality, which clashes with the idea of doing things right the first time. Relying solely on external audits misses the proactive, preventive focus of TQM and treats problems after they occur rather than preventing them. Focusing on short‑term cost reductions can erode the investment in training, processes, and systems needed for lasting quality.