Is six sigma just a version of TQM or another cost-efficiency program?

TQM principles are scattered throughout the six sigma methodology and one will have a difficult time separating the two. We like to think that the six sigma methodology is TQM on steroids, primarily because it uses the tools and approaches of TQM, but it takes them one step further, in terms of effectiveness, analysis and profitability. As for six sigma being just another cost-efficiency program—that is not quite accurate. Cost of quality is used through the six sigma methodology, as well as a cost/benefit analysis. However, both of these devices play a much greater role than other tools/devices in the context of the total organization and the optimization of the particular process under evaluation. The efficiency through cost is optimized through the elimination of the hidden factory (see the next question).