CPIM Practice Exam

Who is the most immediate customer for the production control department according to total quality management?

1. End users of products

2. Central supply

3. Shipping

4. Production shop floor

The correct answer is: Production shop floor

The most immediate customer for the production control department, according to total quality management, is the production shop floor. This is because the production control department is responsible for managing and coordinating the flow of materials and information between different departments in the production process. Their primary role is to ensure that the production activities run smoothly and efficiently, which directly impacts the operations on the shop floor. In a total quality management framework, the concept of "internal customers" is emphasized, where each department relies on the activities and outputs of others to perform their own tasks effectively. The production shop floor relies on timely and accurate planning and control from the production control department to maintain a steady workflow, avoid bottlenecks, and ensure that production targets are met. By focusing on the needs of the shop floor, the production control department helps to ensure that quality standards are upheld throughout the manufacturing process, which aligns with the principles of total quality management. This alignment enables effective communication and collaboration, ultimately contributing to the overall quality and efficiency of the production system.