Quality Flashcards
What are the 7 ways of achieving quality?
Quality inputs
Quality control
Quality assurance
Quality management
Quality circles
Quality standards
Benchmarking
Describe quality inputs
Ensuring all inputs are of the highest standard. This includes:
High quality raw materials
Well-trained staff
Up-to-date/well maintained machinery
Describe quality control
Checking the product at the end of the production process. This prevents faulty products from reaching the customer.
Describe quality assurance
Checking the product at regular intervals throughout the production process. Allows mistakes to be spotted earlier which can then be re-worked back into the production process.
Describe quality management
A whole-organisational approach where the aim is that every part of the business is of the highest standard with zero errors/inefficiencies.
Describe quality circles
When groups of production workers meet with management to discuss ways to improve the production process.
Describe quality standards
Applying to have your product checked against an industry standard in order to receive a symbol/seal of approval on your packaging (e.g. BSI Kitemark or Red Lion on eggs)
Describe benchmarking
Copying the production techniques of the industry leader.
Advantages of achieving quality
Higher prices can be charged.
Customers will be more satisfied.
The business will develop a positive reputation.
Employees will be motivated by seeing a quality product being made.
Disadvantages of achieving quality
It will be more expensive to have high quality inputs.
Quality inputs doesn’t guarantee quality outputs.
Extra checks during production can be time consuming.
Competitors may find other ways to gain market share such as lowering prices.
