What are the differences between a QMS and TQM?

The terms QMS and TQM are often regarded as interchangeable. Whilst each is centred on quality, there are fundamental differences in what they represent.

In essence a QMS is a clearly defined set of business processes with the main aim of delivering products or services to a consistently high standard. Usually, the QMS is applied across the entire organisation to achieve uniformly high quality standards. Once the system is established, the majority of organisations undergo formal auditing to demonstrate compliance with a standard such as ISO 9001.

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Total Quality Management (TQM), is best described as a management philosophy the aim of which is to achieve business excellence by delivering a high level of customer satisfaction. It instils a culture of quality across the organisation and is strongly focused on the concept of continual improvement and the active involvement of the workforce in this aim. TQM has its origins in the manufacturing sector, but its principles are successfully applied to all types of business including those in the services sector.