Total Quality Management in Construction

The principles of Total Quality Management TQM provide a means for achieving quality in the construction process. The improvement of quality requires that every member of the organization embrace the principles of continuous improvement. Total Quality Management is a customer-oriented approach that stresses the effective use of people. Total Quality management also emphasizes the application of quantitative methods and process improvement techniques to continually improve products and services. Total Quality Management requires a cultural change in the organization. The leadership and management of the organization must demonstrate a sincere commitment to continuous improvement. They must foster a working environment which capitalizes on the creativity and ingenuity of employees. The TQM organization focuses on the needs and expectations of customers, both internal and external. Emphasis is placed on prevention of the causes of defects rather than the correction of defects. The organization must foster a long-term relationship with suppliers based on mutual trust and respect. Total Quality Management encourages innovation and application of new technology and procedures to enhance quality improvement.