Thursday, December 26, 2013

Basics Relating To Quality Management Systems

By Marcia Marks


The importance quality management systems (QMS), to an organisation cannot be overemphasized. It is the tool that helps the organisation to know whether it is moving forward, backwards or is not making any progress. QMS refer to an assembly of business processes aimed at meeting set objectives. QMS is in form of policies, procedures, quality manual, organizational structure and responsibilities, resources among others. While early systems put emphasis on predictable results of a product, current systems focus on team cooperation and dynamics. QMS has further evolved to incorporate sustainability and transparency initiatives.

QMS processes help in the reinforcement of compliance in the operation of an organisation. They also help in the attainment of certification by governing bodies in the respective industries. Processes that have to be strictly followed or met before this certification is given include, among others, order processing, production planning, calibration, internal audits and corrective and preventive measures. One of the most widely known QMS the world over is the ISO 900. Another system that is used in some places is known as Natural Step. Both of these systems, among others, help in putting emphasis on sustainability and integration of processes.

There are many industries for which the use of QMS plays a vital role. These systems are widely used for medical equipment to ensure safety and efficacy to the satisfaction of clients. Manufacturers of medical devices have the responsibility of using good judgement coming up with their quality systems. Design, production and distribution in a business entail key elements that have to be strictly applied. Such include product acceptance, validating processes, personnel training and qualification and control of purchasing and documentation.

It is necessary to conduct research on the business environment before designing a QMS. Organisations rely on their customers and therefore should strive to understand client needs and expectations. A rapid response to market opportunities results in increased market share and revenue. In an effort to promote customer satisfaction, a company is able to increase effectiveness in the use of resources. This eventually leads to enhanced customer loyalty.

The principle of leadership also needs to be applied to establish direction and unity of purpose in an organisation. One of the benefits of good leadership is that poor or lack of communication will be minimised. With this principle, the needs of all involved parties including customers, employees, suppliers and financiers are considered.

A desired outcome is better achieved when resources are managed as a process. With this in place, there will be better accountability and responsibility. In addition, it also makes it possible to evaluate consequences and risks of activities on all interested parties. The process approach also leads to the organisation being able to identify interfaces of essential activities.

The system approach to management requires identification, understanding and managing interrelated processes as a system. This provides confidence to interested parties with regard to effectiveness, consistency and efficacy of the organisation. Such a system leads to continual improvement of the system through evaluation and measurement.

Ideal quality management systems need to have a factual approach to decision making. This is based on a thorough analysis of data and information. The organisation needs to ensure that data is accessible whenever it is needed. Valid methods have to be employed to ensure that data is accurate and reliable.




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