BMIS – Nov 2017 – L1 – Q7b – Operations strategy

b) Quality is the totality of features and characteristics of a product or service which bears on its ability to meet stated or implied needs. Required: i) Distinguish between Quality Management, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control. (6 marks) ii) Outline any TWO of the five general activities involved in quality management systems. (4 marks)

Question

b) Quality is the totality of features and characteristics of a product or service which bears on its ability to meet stated or implied needs.

Required:
i) Distinguish between Quality Management, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control.
(6 marks)

ii) Outline any TWO of the five general activities involved in quality management systems.
(4 marks)

Answer

i) Distinction Between Quality Management, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control:

Quality Management: Quality management is the overall process of controlling activities to ensure that products or services are fit for their purpose and meet specified standards. It encompasses both quality assurance and quality control.
(2 marks)
Quality Assurance: Quality assurance focuses on the processes and procedures used in production or service delivery, aiming to prevent defects by establishing and following standards.
(2 marks)
Quality Control: Quality control involves the inspection and testing of products or services to ensure they meet the required quality standards. It focuses on identifying and correcting defects after they occur.
(2 marks)

ii) General Activities Involved in Quality Management Systems:

Planning and Establishing Standards: Setting the standards of quality for a product or service, including procedures and methods that ensure these standards are met.
(2 marks)
Monitoring and Measuring Quality: Using suitable instruments and techniques to monitor and measure the actual quality of products or services against the established standards.
(2 marks)