Quality Control (QC)
Quality Control focuses on operations: monitoring the system of
production for stability, detecting emerging process problems (special causes), and taking
steps to address them. QC is based on measurement of performance; processes are
continually examined (via statistical methods, technology, or direct observation) for
conformance with current quality expectations (goals). When gaps are detected between
expected and observed performance, frontline staff undertake problem-solving methods such
as root cause analysis to identify the source of the problem and devise a remedy. If the current
process is not capable of meeting customer needs and the needed changes are beyond the
scope of the frontline unit, a QI initiative is planned to redesign the process. Quality Control
fundamentally is about ensuring that a process remains stable (“in control”) over time — that
is, its performance remains within the upper and lower control limits. QC is usually
performed by those closest to the process.
