How are objectives set in a TQM framework?

In a Total Quality Management (TQM) framework, objectives are fundamentally rooted in both organizational goals and customer needs. This ensures that the entire organization is aligned towards delivering quality and value to customers, which is the primary focus of TQM. By aligning objectives with the needs of customers, organizations can ensure that their products and services meet or exceed customer expectations, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

This approach allows for a more holistic understanding of what the organization aims to achieve; rather than setting isolated departmental goals that may not contribute to the overarching aims of the company, TQM emphasizes a cohesive strategy where every department works toward common objectives that enhance quality and efficiency. Hence, the objectives are reflective of a commitment to continuous improvement and customer-centricity, which are essential tenets of TQM.

In contrast, other methods of goal-setting, such as independently determining goals by departments, relying solely on financial projections, or having external consultants establish objectives, can lead to disjointed efforts that do not account for customer perspectives or the broader strategic vision of the organization. Thus, the emphasis in TQM on aligning goals with both organizational aims and customer feedback is what makes this method effective and fundamentally correct.