The use of defect prevention in achieving total quality management in the software life cycle

The author describes how a comprehensive defect prevention process can be applied to the software development life cycle as one of several approaches to achieving the TQM (total quality management) objective. First, the concept of TQM is defined, delineating fundamental elements of the philosophy. Then, a life cycle model of a defect prevention process is described, followed by a discussion of how it can be used as a basis for achieving TQM. It is noted that the results of the initiative are increased productivity, high product quality, and better customer satisfaction