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The practice identified by Deming that should be eliminated is the use of slogans, exhortations, and targets. Deming believed that relying on these methods often leads to blaming workers for issues that are typically rooted in the systems and processes they work within. Slogans and exhortations can create pressure to meet arbitrary targets without facilitating an understanding of the work being done or the quality processes that could genuinely enhance performance and results.

Instead of motivating employees, such practices can be demoralizing, as they may feel that management is not considering the complexities of their work environment. Deming's philosophy emphasizes a systems approach to quality and performance improvement, suggesting that organizations should focus on the underlying processes and work culture instead of superficial motivators.

Eliminating the insistence on slogans and targets encourages a more collaborative and supportive environment aimed at continual improvement, which is a core tenet of Deming's approach. By fostering an atmosphere that values teamwork and open communication, organizations can focus on systemic improvements, ultimately leading to better quality and performance outcomes.