Who was highlighted as a key figure in the early quality movement and associated the Japanese method with companywide quality control?

The key figure in the early quality movement who is prominently associated with the concept of companywide quality control is Ishikawa. He developed the concept known as “Total Quality Control” and introduced significant quality tools, such as the Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram, which helps in identifying the causes of a problem in a systematic way. Ishikawa’s work emphasized that quality should involve all members of an organization, not just the quality control department. His contributions were pivotal in promoting a holistic approach to quality management in Japan during the post-war era, particularly as the country focused on improving the quality of its products. This approach laid the groundwork for modern quality practices that are now seen across the globe.