This paper describes how IBM in the United Kingdom has successfully used its own technology to build an on-line Quality Management System. This system is used to store or reference all documentation needed to demonstrate compliance with ISO9000 and TickIT as a soft-copy 'Quality Manual', as well as forming the basis of our Total Quality Management efforts. QMS software developed in the United Kingdom has now been installed by IBM locations world-wide as part of the Corporation's efforts to have all manufacturing and development sites certified to ISO9000 by the end of 1992. Since 1984, three major QMS systems have been implemented around the UK, developed to suit the unique needs of the different environments of manufacturing, development and marketing & services. From these systems we have developed a single system capable of being customised to suit all needs, with variable features being activated selectively at installation. This single system also includes requirements from both current and future users of on-line QMS in IBM world-wide. There are several considerations that must be taken into account before deciding to implement an on-line solution. The paper examines these considerations and looks at differing terminology and methods within IBM UK Ltd. and IBM UK laboratories Ltd., as well as the types of information stored on-line, information linkage and different paths to provide alternate views of the files contained within QMS. Certain basic functions arc required to provide wide access to text and graphics files, as well as controlled functions such as update authority, approvals and self-assessments. The paper provides an overview of the typical functions required before concluding with the experience to date and a summary of the major challenges and major advantages in implementing and using an on-line Quality Management System. Transactions on Information and Communications Technologies vol 4, © 1993 WIT Press, www.witpress.com, ISSN 1743-3517