Total Quality Management (TQM) aims to meet customer needs through continuous improvement. It evolved from quality control to quality assurance to TQM. Key thinkers include Deming, Juran, Crosby, Ishikawa, Taguchi, and Imai. Deming emphasized reducing variability and management commitment. Juran developed the quality trilogy. Crosby defined quality as conformance to requirements. Taguchi focused on minimizing loss. Toyota Production System principles include just-in-time production and respect for people. TQM aims to eliminate waste and ensure customer satisfaction.