ISO 9000’s definition of quality is the “degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills requirement”.

So, we must consider the customer, the attributes of the product and the degree to which the product or service meets the needs of all stakeholders. Based on these characteristics we can define the quality of a product as “good”, “average”, “excellent”.

Adherence to a recognized quality standard is essential for dealing with certain customers or complying with legislation. If you sell products in regulated markets, such as health care, food or electrical goods, you must be able to comply with the health and safety compliance standards designed to protect consumer’s interests.

In today’s business environment, organizations face multiple challenges ranging from a global economic slowdown, challenging and agile competition, and technology that’s moving at lightening pace. And one of the ways in which an organization can build a strong, sustainable competitive advantage for itself, is via implementing Total quality management (TQM) practices.