TL 9000 is a quality management system standard for the telecommunications industry that aims to improve quality, efficiency, and supplier relationships. It was created by major telecom companies and combines ISO 9000 requirements with additional metrics. Companies implement TL 9000 through activities like training, documentation, audits. Nortel saw benefits after implementing TL 9000 like improved efficiency and supplier partnerships. Exercises help organizations identify areas for quality improvement and how TL 9000 can help address problems.