Detailed Explanation:
The correct answer is A. Lack of constancy of purpose.
W. Edwards Deming identified several organizational problems that undermine quality management effectiveness. These are often referred to as the " Seven Deadly Diseases " of management. One of the most significant among them is lack of constancy of purpose, meaning organizations fail to maintain a consistent long-term commitment to improving products and services.
Lack of constancy of purpose occurs when organizations:
Focus on short-term financial results rather than long-term improvement
Frequently change priorities or direction
Fail to sustain improvement initiatives
Do not consistently invest in quality and innovation
This instability prevents organizations from developing strong quality systems and continuous improvement culture.
Why the other options are incorrect:
B. Emphasis on long-term profits
Deming criticized the emphasis on short-term profits, not long-term profits. Long-term thinking is actually encouraged.
C. Mandating zero defects
While some quality programs emphasize zero defects, it is not one of Deming ' s seven deadly diseases.
D. Eliminating work standards
Deming criticized rigid numerical quotas and poorly designed performance targets, but eliminating work standards is not part of the seven deadly diseases.
Quality Management Excellence frameworks emphasize consistent long-term improvement strategies, which directly addresses Deming’s concern about lack of constancy of purpose.
