QA vs QC
QA vs QC
(OP)
In the context of construction specifications, I've seen different definitions for the terms Quality Control and Quality Assurance. AIA Masterspec defines Quality Assurance as "Activities...performed before and during execution of work" and Quality Control as "Tests, Inspections...during and after completion of the work."
But I've also seen QC refering to control activities performed by a contractor, and QA as inspection of the contractor's work performed by others (who are separate from the contractor).
What are the conventional industry standards for the meanings of these words?
-JCali
But I've also seen QC refering to control activities performed by a contractor, and QA as inspection of the contractor's work performed by others (who are separate from the contractor).
What are the conventional industry standards for the meanings of these words?
-JCali






RE: QA vs QC
RE: QA vs QC
Quality control can ONLY be done by one actually doing the work or in direct control of the work. In the construction process, that would be the General Contractor. It is a process of activities done DURING the work to achieve quality.
Quality assurance consists of a process set in place to help define the quality control process and who is responsible for what. Quality Assurance can be a written document describing the steps to achieve quality through quality control. Specifications are part of a Quality Assurance program.
Quality verification is the testing and inspection process that checks to see that a measurable or quantifiable process was completed in accordance with the established criteria.
RE: QA vs QC
Quality Assurance Record - A completed record that furnishes evidence of the quality of items and/or activities affecting quality.
Quality Control (QC) - Those activities and criteria that measure the attributes and performance of a process, item, or service against defined standards to verify that they meet stated requirements, including operational techniques and activities that are used to fulfill requirements for quality.
SCET - Techmaximus
RE: QA vs QC
Another definition I see a lot that probably doesn't line up with the quality industry is that QC, regardless of which party has responsibility, inspects everything, whereas QA is an audit function that makes sure that QC really is working.
Hg
RE: QA vs QC
QA is a cost after the fact.
Quality Improvement is the sum of QC+QA
Do the math to affect the product!