Phineas Corp. has made a name for itself by following long-standing methods to manufacture wooden furniture. Recently, competitors using more modern technology have appeared in the furniture market, and Phineas has found its business suffering as a result. Using a TQM approach, what might help Phineas Corp. improve?
A) Phineas should firmly resist engaging in any risk taking, instead continuing to follow its traditional methods and processes.
B) Phineas management should not involve subordinates when looking to solve the corporation's problems.
C) Phineas should create an atmosphere that promotes innovation.
D) Phineas should ignore its customer needs and requests.
E) Phineas should provide quality training only to those in top management.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Creating an atmosphere that promotes innovation can help Phineas Corp. improve by encouraging employees to bring new ideas and technologies to the manufacturing process. This can help Phineas keep up with its competitors and improve the quality of its products. A TQM approach stresses continuous improvement and involvement of all employees in the process, so Option A (resisting risk-taking) and Option E (limiting quality training to top management) do not align with this approach. Option B (not involving subordinates) goes against the principles of TQM, while Option D (ignoring customer needs) is never a good business strategy.