In this paper, the concept of trust is elaborated upon and compared with the traditional

values of quality management. Trust is approached from the areas of relationship

marketing and organisational learning where it is a frequent element. The purpose is

to create a framework of trust based on previous research, particularly in the areas of

relationship marketing and organisational learning, and to analyse whether trust

should be regarded as a core value of quality management. Properties of the concept

of trust in quality management, relationship marketing and organisational learning are

described. Concerning trust as a quality value, it is found that dissimilarities with the

current values make it an unsuitable candidate for inclusion in this group. However,

examination of the underlying components of the current values of quality

management is encouraged with the conviction that trust will prove to be an important

element in this endeavour. A tentative framework based on the two dimensions of

aspects of trust and components of the relationshipis proposed. This framework

broadens the view of trust and its implications for quality management. The proposed

framework should be helpful for managers in providing a more structured view of the

different aspects of trust in business relationships.