What is NOT characterized by Total Quality Management (TQM)?

Total Quality Management (TQM) is centered on a comprehensive and systematic approach to improving organizational performance. One of the fundamental principles of TQM is the active involvement of upper management in establishing quality goals and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. Upper management plays a critical role in providing the necessary resources, aligning corporate objectives with quality initiatives, and promoting a commitment to quality at all levels of the organization.

The absence of upper management involvement would be contrary to TQM principles, as their leadership is essential for motivating employees, driving change, and ensuring that quality processes are integrated into the organization's operations. Without such involvement, there's a risk of poor communication, lack of direction, and insufficient adherence to quality standards, which can ultimately undermine the effectiveness of TQM initiatives. Therefore, the characterization highlighting minimal involvement of upper management does not align with the core tenets of TQM.