The importance and benefits of quality management
Zero defect production and output
Waste in business reduces the profitability of a company, e.g. raw materials, machinery, time and people must be used to produce a product. All these incur a cost so if the product is defective and cannot be sold, the money will have been wasted.
Continuous improvement
Continuous improvement is a continuous process of identifying, analysing and making improvements to systems, processes, products or services. This is how businesses try to make sure they improve efficiency all the time.
Improving output quality
Continuously improving production systems will result in better quality products. In turn this should lead to satisfied customers and a good reputation.
Reduced inspection requirements
In the past, the emphasis was on quality control. This is when goods are produced and then go through a quality checking/inspection process to ensure that the finished goods are of sufficient quality. Today, a complete quality management system builds quality into all processes so that there should ultimately be much reduced need for quality inspection systems.
Having quality standards and processes in place means that there is less need for supervision of employees.
Supplier commitment and satisfaction
Building close relationships with suppliers as part of quality management leads to supplier satisfaction as they feel part of a system that works.
Customer satisfaction
If faulty goods reach the customer they will be dissatisfied. They may think twice before buying the company's products again.
Improving efficiency and profitability
Quality improvement often aims to ensure efficiency, and in turn, improve profitability by reducing waste and ensuring high quality goods that satisfy customers.
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