Which of the following factors is essential for effective Total Quality Management?

Organizational support and commitment are crucial for effective Total Quality Management (TQM) because they create the necessary environment for quality improvement initiatives to succeed. When leadership is fully committed to TQM principles, it fosters a culture that prioritizes quality at every level of the organization. This involves not only dedicating resources and time to training employees in quality processes but also setting a clear vision and strategic objectives related to quality improvement.

Moreover, such support encourages collaboration and communication among employees, paving the way for a participative approach where everyone contributes to quality efforts. It also helps in breaking down silos within the organization, allowing for a more integrated approach to problem-solving and innovation. Ultimately, the support and commitment from the organization ensure that quality initiatives are sustained over the long term, leading to better customer satisfaction and overall effectiveness in meeting business goals.

In contrast, market competition, while a motivating factor, does not directly contribute to the foundational aspects of TQM. A focus on profits alone can lead to short-term thinking that might compromise quality. Limiting employee involvement runs counter to the TQM philosophy, which is predicated on the notion that every employee's contribution is vital for achieving high-quality outcomes.