Question

Which of these are aspects of W. Edwards Deming's beliefs about quality management?

A) The best way to focus a firm's efforts is to concentrate on customers' real needs.
B) Firms should put their energies into "fitness for use."
C) Managers should stress teamwork and be helpful rather than simply give orders.
D) Managers should make employees feel comfortable about asking questions.
E) Quality comes from a steady focus on a firm's mission along with statistical measurement and reduction of variations in production processes.

Answer 1

W. Edwards Deming's quality management includes focusing on customer needs, fitness for use, teamwork and supportive management, open communication, and the use of statistical measures to reduce production variations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Aspects of W. Edwards Deming's beliefs about quality management include a diverse set of principles and practices focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of organizational processes. Among these aspects are:

• (A) The belief that a firm should focus on understanding and meeting the real needs of customers.
• (B) The concept of "fitness for use," which suggests that firms should ensure their products meet the intended purpose and requirements of the users.
• (C) An emphasis on managerial practices fostering teamwork, collaboration, and a supportive environment rather than a command-and-control approach.
• (D) Encouraging an organizational culture where employees are comfortable in asking questions, thereby facilitating open communication and continuous learning.
• (E) The application of statistical methods to measure and reduce variations in production processes, aligning with a firm's mission for consistent quality control.

Deming's overall philosophy centers on continuous improvement practices and employee involvement to achieve higher quality and better organizational performance.