Abstract
This study systematically reviews the development of Total Quality Management (TQM) practices in relation to Green Quality Intelligence Capabilities (GQIC), Circular Process Innovation (CPI), and Sustainable Operational Performance (SOP). Responding to the need for a clearer review method and a more focused novelty, this article applies the PRISMA 2020-based Systematic Literature Review approach. Articles were identified from the Scopus database using keyword combinations related to TQM, quality management practices, green capability, green innovation, circular economy, circular process innovation, Industry 4.0, Quality 4.0, and sustainability performance. After identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and quality appraisal, 27 articles published between 2016 and 2026 were included in the final synthesis. The findings show that TQM literature has shifted from traditional quality control and customer satisfaction toward digital, green, and sustainability-oriented quality management. Soft TQM dimensions, such as leadership, employee involvement, training, and quality culture, and hard TQM dimensions, such as process management, quality tools, continuous improvement, and data-based decision making, remain dominant. However, prior studies still frequently use general mediators, including knowledge management, organizational culture, innovation capability, and competitive advantage. This review proposes CPI as a more specific mediation mechanism that translates TQM and GQIC into sustainable operational outcomes through waste reduction, resource efficiency, material reuse, energy efficiency, and circular process redesign. The study contributes by offering an integrated conceptual model and propositions for future empirical research on quality management, green intelligence, circular innovation, and sustainable operations.
