55. What is the major element that needs to be implemented in total quality management?

Answer: C

Explanation:

Effective control is the major element that needs to be implemented in total quality management.

Effective control ensures that processes are monitored and improved continuously to meet quality standards. It is essential for maintaining consistency and achieving overall excellence in products and services.

A) Hiring and firing

While hiring and firing can impact the quality of an organization, they are not fundamental elements of total quality management. Total quality management focuses more on processes and systems rather than solely on personnel decisions.

B) Products

Products are a significant aspect of total quality management, but they are not the major element. Total quality management emphasizes the systems and controls in place to ensure that products meet quality standards rather than the products themselves.

C) Effective control

Effective control is indeed the major element that needs to be implemented in total quality management. It involves systematic monitoring and adjustments to processes, ensuring that quality standards are maintained and improved over time.

D) Services

Services are also important in total quality management; however, like products, they are not the central element. The focus of total quality management is on ensuring effective control over processes that deliver both products and services.

Conclusion

Effective control is the cornerstone of total quality management, as it enables organizations to monitor and enhance quality consistently. Other options, while relevant to the broader context of quality management, do not capture the essential need for systematic oversight and improvement that effective control provides. This distinction solidifies why C is the most appropriate answer.