TQM describes a structured, systematic and integrated management approach to long–term success through maximizing internal and external customer and supplier satisfaction. It is where all managers and employees of an organization use quantitative methods to participate together as a team and actively work to support each other in improving all the processes, products, services, and the culture (ethos) in which they work.

It is a management philosophy that looks to integrate all the organizational functions (marketing, finance, customer service, etc.) to continually improve on the delivery of customer needs and business objectives.

TQM is also referred to today as Business Excellence