Total quality management (TQM) is based on four tenets of (1) continuous improvement, (2) employee participation, (3) product/service improvement, and (4) supplier relationships. Review each of the following items, a through

e, and determine which tenet of TQM applies.

a. Employees of a warehouse are cross-trained by rotating through the functions of receiving orders, picking orders, and packing orders for shipment.

b. A study conducted by a large CPA firm of its clients resulted in the firm dismissing clients that posed the largest risks for audit failures.

c. Equipment was redesigned in order to avoid a machining process that resulted in occasional product defects.

d. A fast food service provider offers a customer loyalty program where the customer is rewarded with free menu items after a short survey is completed within five days of the last visit.

e. An equipment parts manufacturer teams up with its international suppliers to review labor practices.