Quality Assurance in Industries

This book introduces the philosophy of Quality Assurance. The key components of the quality system are covered which is most appropriate to the needs of the particular industry. A detailed guide is given which addresses the nature and scope of tasks that must be undertaken in implementing a quality system.

Quality starts at the design stage. A system will quantify by means of precise measurement and the production capability of the organisation. This will facilitate improved tolerance for the functionality of the product and the identification of areas of capability associated with specific tolerance demands. The correct application of the above will greatly facilitate the right-first-time manufacturing.

Quality Assurance comprises administrative and procedural activities implemented in a quality system so that the requirements and goals for a product, service or activity will be fulfilled. It is the systematic measurement, comparison with a standard, monitoring of processes and an associated feedback loop that confers error prevention. This can be contrasted with quality control, which is focused on process output.

Quality Assurance (QA) includes two principles: 'Fit for use' (the product should be suitable for the intended purpose); and the 'right-first-time' (mistakes should be eliminated). QA includes management of the quality of raw materials, assemblies, products and components, services related to production and management, production and inspection processes. The two principles also manifest before the background of developing a novel technical product.