A clear understanding of the concept of TQM, as it is presented in literature, forms an essential part of the initial foundation on which to build a framework for its implementation. This article covers different rationalisations of the TQM concept as an internal institutional arrangement. It provides an overview of quality management as a discipline, based on a historical review of its development. The principles and definitions of TQM, provided in relevant literature, are discussed and on that basis, a definition of TQM is formulated. The reasons for the introduction of TQM are analysed, including the fact that it can assist institutions to improve and, in the process, better serve their communities and their own employees.