The long view of total quality management pays off

Uses a review of literature to examine quality in the context of its current understanding thinking by advocates of total quality management (TQM). It must be realized that TQM is not a short‐term fix. It demands thorough preparation, unbending commitment, clear direction from management and, above all, patience. Rising consumer expectations are forcing industries to reevaluate existing practices and improve them. To achieve competitive supremacy all organizations in Europe and worldwide will need to take a long‐term strategic view of TQM. Looks at a manufacturing company in the North of England which is laying down the foundations for implementing TQM.