The big difference between reengineering and continuous improvement programs like TQM is that:

Reengineering is a tool for installing process organization whereas TQM concerns defect$-$free production methods and delivering world$-$class customer service

Reengineering helps create core competencies whereas TQM is a tool for making a core competence stronger and more efficient

Reengineering is a tool for achieving dramatic improvements in performing a business process whereas TQM i a follow$-$on program to perfect the process and gradually improve both its efficiency and its effectiveness

Reengineering requires benchmarking whereas TQM doesn't

Reengineering represents an effort to totally revamp a firm's value chain whereas TQM looks at improving th performance of specific value$-$chain activities