Management system - Definition and Overview

A management system is the framework of processes and procedures used to ensure that an organisation can fulfill all tasks required to achieve its objectives.

For instance, an environmental management system enables organisations to improve their environmental performance through a process of continuous improvement. An oversimplification is "Plan, Do, Check, Act." A more complete system would include accountability (an assignment of personal responsibility) and a schedule for activities to be completed, as well as auditing tools to implement corrective actions in addition to scheduled activities, creating an upward spiral of continuous improvement.

See also: TQM