builds on concepts that were introduced in "Total Manufacturing Solutions", Basu and Wright (1997). It demonstrates how this holistic approach of operational excellence driven by a self-assessment methodology can be applied equally to manufacturing, service or public sectors. The text covers an implementation programme to demonstrate how to put the methodology into practice. a differentiating feature ofthe approach will be a critical uopdate, impact analysis and comparison with new developments such as e-Business, outsourcing, Six Sigma, EFQM and ISO 9000:2000. It is a step-by-step guide for the application of the appropriate tools to the improvement process. could be used as an essential handbook for all employees in a Six Sigma programme and provide a better understanding of basic tools and techniques to help them to support a quality improvement initiative and sustain a srong competitive position.