What is the primary emphasis of the customer-centric approach in TQM?

The primary emphasis of the customer-centric approach in Total Quality Management (TQM) is to meet and exceed customer needs and expectations. This approach recognizes that understanding customer requirements is crucial for achieving long-term success and sustainability in any organization. By focusing on what customers truly value, businesses can create products and services that not only satisfy but also delight their customers, leading to increased loyalty and positive word-of-mouth.

A customer-centric approach goes beyond just gathering feedback; it involves embedding this understanding into every facet of the organization, from product design and development to service delivery and quality assurance. This commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction can drive continual improvement within the organization, fostering a culture that prioritizes quality and responsiveness to market demands.

In contrast, while reducing production costs, ensuring employee satisfaction, and increasing profit margins are all important aspects of a successful business, they do not capture the essence of a customer-centric approach. These elements may be byproducts of a strong customer focus, but they do not drive the primary goal of TQM as defined by its customer-centric core.