What is the primary outcome that both lean thinking and total quality management aim to achieve?

Both lean thinking and total quality management (TQM) are methodologies that focus on improving processes and enhancing the overall quality of services and products. While cost reduction, expanded product offerings, and higher employee productivity may be results of implementing these methodologies, the primary outcome that both strategies aim to achieve is increased customer satisfaction.

Lean thinking emphasizes the elimination of waste and improving efficiency in processes, which ultimately leads to a better experience for the customer. By streamlining operations and focusing on what adds value to the customer, organizations can more effectively meet customer needs and expectations.

TQM, on the other hand, is focused on continuous improvement in quality and encourages the involvement of all employees in the organization. The improvements made through TQM initiatives are directly tied to enhancing customer satisfaction by delivering higher quality products and services, thus fostering customer loyalty and retention.

Overall, both lean thinking and TQM prioritize customer satisfaction as the ultimate goal, as satisfied customers are essential for the long-term success and sustainability of any organization.