AbstractOften a management theory fails in practice not because the theory is without merit, but because it was improperly applied. The integration of TQM into plant operations can be accomplished through a four‐step circular process: (1) analysis and identification, (2) design, (3) implementation, and (4) evaluation and adjustment. The author outlines these steps in detail and discusses some practical parameters that should be considered before embarking on a TQM program, including the current management philosophy, plant size, and time managemen