15 commonly used tools in Total Quality Management (TQM), compiled from widely recognized quality management practices. The first seven are the classic "Seven Basic Quality Tools" (also known as 7 QC Tools), developed by Kaoru Ishikawa and foundational to TQM for problem-solving and process improvement.
The remaining are additional key tools frequently cited in TQM implementations for advanced analysis, planning, and continuous improvement.
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1. Cause-and-Effect Diagram (Fishbone Diagram or Ishikawa Diagram) — Identifies potential root causes of a problem by categorizing them (e.g., people, processes, materials).
2. Check Sheet (Tally Sheet) — A simple data collection tool to record and count occurrences of events or defects systematically.
3. Control Chart — Monitors process stability over time by plotting data points against control limits to detect variations.
4. Histogram — Displays the frequency distribution of data to show patterns and variations in processes.
5. Pareto Chart — A bar chart that prioritizes issues based on the 80/20 rule (80% of problems from 20% of causes).
6. Scatter Diagram — Plots two variables to identify relationships or correlations between them.
7. Flowchart (Process Map) — Visualizes the steps in a process to identify inefficiencies or bottlenecks.
8. Run Chart — A time-series plot to track trends and shifts in data over time (often considered an extension of basic tools).
9. Statistical Process Control (SPC) — Uses statistical methods to monitor, control, and improve process performance.
10. Root Cause Analysis (RCA) — Systematic methods (e.g., 5 Whys) to dig into the underlying reasons for defects.
11. 5 Whys — A questioning technique to drill down to the root cause by asking "why" repeatedly.
12. Benchmarking — Compares processes or performance against industry best practices.
13. Quality Function Deployment (QFD) — Translates customer needs into technical requirements (often using House of Quality).
14. Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) — Identifies potential failures in a process or product and their impacts.
15. Six Sigma Methodology — A data-driven approach (integrated into TQM) to reduce defects and variability using DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control).
