The History of Total Quality Management

Submitted to

Dr. Asad Raza Gardezi

Submitted by

Akash Akram

22-BSMLE-02

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Bahuaddin Zakariya University Multan

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TABLE OF CONTENT
Objective ...........................................................................................................................................03
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 03
The origin of quality management ..............................................................................................................................03

Key developments in TQM ......................................................................................................................................... 03

TQM’s global expansion and refinement .................................................................................................................. 03

TQM’s in the 21st century ..................................................................................................................04

Notable figures in TQM development ...............................................................................................04
Conclusions…………………………………………………………………………………………04

Reference.......................................................................................................................................... 07

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History and Evolution of Total Quality
Management (TQM)
Objective
The aim of this assignment is to trace the development of Total Quality Management (TQM) from its early
roots to its modern-day application in industries worldwide. It will highlight the significant milestones,
methods, and individuals who contributed to its evolution.

Introduction
Total Quality Management (TQM) is a management philosophy that emphasizes the importance of quality in
every aspect of an organization’s operations. Rather than focusing solely on the final product or service, TQM
encourages businesses to involve all employees in improving processes continuously. Over time, it has
become a universal approach for enhancing performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

The Origins of Quality Management

Craftsmanship and Early Quality Control

In the pre-industrial era, quality was maintained through the skill of individual craftsmen who oversaw the
entire production process. Artisans ensured that their goods met the required standards by personally
managing quality. With the rise of industrialization in the late 18th century, the focus shifted towards mass
production, leading to the need for more formalized quality inspection systems.

Quality Control in the Early 20th Century

In the early 1900s, businesses began to realize that quality control could not rely solely on inspection at the
end of the production line. It was around this time that pioneers like Frederick Winslow Taylor introduced
scientific management, focusing on efficiency but also touching upon the need for consistency in quality.

Key Developments in the Growth of TQM

1920s: The Introduction of Statistical Methods

The 1920s saw a major breakthrough in quality management with the work of Walter A. Shewhart. His
invention of Statistical Process Control (SPC) was a game-changer, enabling companies to monitor and
control production processes using statistical methods. Shewhart’s work laid the foundation for future
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advancements in quality management.

World War II and the Need for Reliability

During World War II, the need for reliable and high-quality equipment became critical. As production
increased, manufacturers had to ensure that their products met strict quality standards to support the war effort.
This led to the formalization of quality management systems and the introduction of standardized quality
procedures across industries.

Post-War Japan: A New Era in Quality

After the war, Japan sought to rebuild its economy, and quality became a national priority. Two American
experts, W. Edwards Deming and Joseph M. Juran, played key roles in helping Japanese industries adopt
advanced quality management techniques. Deming introduced his Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle,
promoting continuous improvement, while Juran emphasized the importance of involving everyone in the
organization in the pursuit of quality.

1950s: The Emergence of TQM Principles in Japan

By the 1950s, Japanese companies were not only embracing but refining quality management practices. The
philosophy of Kaizen, which means continuous improvement, became central to Japanese businesses,
especially in companies like Toyota. This laid the groundwork for what would later be recognized as TQM.

TQM’s Global Expansion and Refinement

1960s: The Spread of Quality Circles

During the 1960s, quality circles gained popularity, especially in Japan. These were groups of employees who
regularly met to discuss and solve quality-related issues in their workplace. The involvement of workers at all
levels was seen as essential for achieving better results.

1980s: TQM Reaches the West

In the 1980s, the success of Japanese firms caught the attention of Western companies, leading to the
widespread adoption of TQM. Companies in the U.S., like Motorola and General Electric, started
implementing TQM to improve their competitiveness. The focus shifted from simple quality control to a
company-wide culture of quality improvement.

The Role of ISO 9000 in the 1990s

During the 1990s, TQM principles were further embedded into international standards. The ISO 9000 family
of standards, introduced by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), became widely adopted
by companies worldwide. These standards offered guidelines for organizations to establish effective quality
management systems.

Six Sigma and TQM

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Another key development during this period was the rise of Six Sigma, a data-driven approach aimed at
reducing defects in processes. While Six Sigma is separate from TQM, the two share a common focus on
quality improvement and customer satisfaction. Six Sigma often complements TQM by providing tools and
techniques for achieving higher levels of process control.

TQM in the 21st Century

Modern-Day Applications of TQM

Today, TQM is still highly relevant, though it has evolved to incorporate modern technologies and methods.
Companies use data analytics, automation, and customer feedback systems to ensure continuous improvement.
TQM is also used in a wide range of industries beyond manufacturing, including healthcare, education, and
government services.

Sustainability and Quality

In recent years, the focus on sustainability has also become part of TQM. Companies are not only looking at
quality from a product or service perspective but are also considering their environmental impact and social
responsibility. Integrating these factors into TQM has become an important aspect of modern business
practices.

Notable Figures in TQM Development

 Frederick Winslow Taylor: Known for introducing scientific management and improving efficiency
in production processes.
 Walter A. Shewhart: Pioneer of Statistical Process Control (SPC), which allowed for better quality
monitoring.
 W. Edwards Deming: Played a key role in Japan’s post-war industrial recovery, promoting the PDCA
cycle and continuous improvement.
 Joseph M. Juran: Brought the idea of total involvement in quality, focusing on the responsibility of
management to drive quality initiatives.
 Kaoru Ishikawa: Known for developing tools like the Ishikawa Diagram (fishbone diagram) and
promoting quality circles.

Conclusion
Total Quality Management has a rich history that spans over a century, evolving from basic quality control
systems to a comprehensive management philosophy. It has played a crucial role in the success of businesses
globally by focusing on continuous improvement, employee involvement, and customer satisfaction. Today,
TQM continues to adapt to the demands of modern industries, ensuring its relevance in the future.

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References
1. Deming, W. E. (1986). Out of the Crisis. MIT Press.
2. Juran, J. M. (1995). A History of Managing for Quality. McGraw-Hill.
3. Ishikawa, K. (1985). What is Total Quality Control? The Japanese Way. Prentice Hall.
4. Shewhart, W. A. (1931). Economic Control of Quality of Manufactured Product. Van Nostrand
Company.
5. Taylor, F. W. (1911). The Principles of Scientific Management. Harper & Brothers.
6. Evans, J. R., & Lindsay, W. M. (2016). Managing for Quality and Performance Excellence. Cengage
Learning.
7. Feigenbaum, A. V. (1991). Total Quality Control. McGraw-Hill.

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