1. QUALITY ASSURANCE Right First Time

2. What is Quality Assurance? Quality Assurance is about trying to prevent faults happening Right first time Zero defects Every stage of the production process is checked for quality

3. Benefits of Quality Assurance Benefits Reduces number of faulty products Reduces costs through lower wastage Motivational for workers, since they are involved in quality

4. Quality Standards There are four quality standards/models Charter Mark ISO 9001 EFQM Investors in People

5. Quality Standards Charter Mark Awarded to public sector organisations Awarded to organisations who provide the highest quality services to customers An organisation has to prove that: –It has set standards and performed well –It has continuously developed and improved –It has used resources effectively

6. Quality Standards ISO 9001 International Standard Organisation 9001 Business Management Standard ISO 9001, focuses on: –How a business trains its staff –Handles mistakes –Uses its resources –Improves

7. Quality Standards EFQM European Foundation for Quality Management Aim to encourage European businesses to improve their standards EFQM has nine criteria, including: –Leadership –People –Processes –Key Performance results

8. Quality Standards Investors in People Focuses on the people who work in the business Ensuring a good level of training and development for staff Employees who are trained are more likely to be motivated Idea is that if people are improved, then the organisation will improve IIP is externally assessed, key issues include: –Resolving people issues –Improving skills –Developing personal responsibility

9. Why have a Quality Standard? Reduces errors and costs Improves the brand image Increases efficiency Increases productivity Consequently, increases profitability Gains the firm a better reputation from customers and potential employees Can be motivational for staff

10. Useful Websites www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/chartermark www.iso.org www.efqm.org www.investorsinpeople.co.uk