The role of the leader in developing a quality culture

What is the role of the leader in an institution undertaking a total quality initiative? No list of attributes says it all, but there are major functions that all leaders must undertake; these include:

• a vision for the institution;
  
• a clear commitment to quality improvement;
  
• an ability to communicate the quality message;
  
• meeting customer needs;
  
• ensuring that the voices of customers are heard;
  
• leading staff development;
  
• a no blame culture—most quality problems are the result of
  management and policies and not the failings of staff;
  
• leadinginnovation;
  
• ensuring that organizational structures have clearly defined
  responsibilities and provide the maximum delegation compatible
  with accountability;
  
• a commitment to the removal of artificial barriers, whether they be
  organizational or cultural;
  
• buildingeffectiveeffectiveteams;
  
• developing appropriate mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating
  success.