11. Understand quality in the context of a project. Flashcards
Question part (a) Explain two purposes of quality planning for a project.
Marks 20 marks (10 marks each)
Question part (b) Explain three key differences between quality control and quality
assurance when managing a project.
Marks 30 marks (10 marks each)
Question part (a)
1) During quality planning the acceptance criteria will be noted which will allow the project manager to provide guidance to the project team about the output requirements and essential conditions for the deliverable they are working on. This will ensure that the deliverables are up to the level of quality defined in the project management plan/business case and will also be the basis of users’ acceptance testing in the transition phase. Giving the project the maximum chance of success and ensuring that the deliverables are fit for purpose.
2) Quality planning also looks at the processes for quality control including testing and reviewing. For example, the organisation may wish to test the product at draft, interim and final stages of the production. Understanding this process will help the project manager and team to plan for these checks within the project schedule and ensure that the appropriate individuals are involved. This allows the project manager to increase confidence in stakeholders that the project is meeting quality requirements throughout its lifecycle.
Question part (b)
1) Quality control consists of inspection, measurement and testing to verify the output meet acceptance criteria of requirements. This is important for the team to understand as this will ensure that deliverables are produced at the correct level of quality whereas quality assurance attempts to build in quality through consistent use of standardised processes and procedures and checks that these processes and procedures are being followed throughout the lifecycle of the project meaning that they team use the same processes across the project developing consistency and continuity as well as increasing confidence in the sponsor and board that the correct quality processes are being followed.
2) Quality control is focused on preventing problems being passed onto customers at the end of the project as the project manager and team will be confident that the deliverables are fit for purpose, whereas quality assurance is focused on preventing problems during the lifecycle of the project. If quality assurance finds anything amiss, it allows the senior management the chance to change it in a timely manner before the products are released to the customer.
3) Quality control can be performed by a nominated member of the project team. For example, this could involve proof-reading a report written by another member of the team to allow for positive feedback and constructive criticism if necessary. On the other hand, quality assurance must be performed by independent party where they can provide an unbiased view to the senior management team and this then provides the foundation for any corrective measures to be put in place if needed.
