Total Quality Management (TQM) is shaping up as the new managerial wave of the 1990s. Unlike previous managerial waves, however, a basic compatibility apperas to exist between the human services, and social work in particular, and TQM as a philosophy of management. TQM emphasizes the quality of program products and services, the self-worth of and empowerment of employees, cooperation and team-building, the systems approach, and the active involvement of contractors.