7 3 Control Quality
7.3 Control Quality Explained
Control Quality is a critical process in project management that involves monitoring and recording results of executing the quality activities to assess performance and recommend necessary changes. This process ensures that the project outputs meet the specified quality standards. Here, we will delve into three key concepts of Control Quality: Quality Audits, Inspection, and Test.
1. Quality Audits
Quality Audits are structured reviews of the quality management activities within a project. These audits verify whether the project's quality management plan is being followed and identify any best practices or areas for improvement. Quality audits help in ensuring that the project adheres to the defined quality standards and processes.
Example: In a software development project, a quality audit might involve reviewing the code review process, testing procedures, and documentation standards. The audit team would check if these processes are being followed correctly and suggest improvements if any deviations are found.
2. Inspection
Inspection involves examining project deliverables to ensure they meet the specified quality standards. This process includes checking the physical characteristics, functionality, and performance of the deliverables. Inspection helps in identifying defects or non-conformities early in the project lifecycle, allowing for timely corrective actions.
Example: For a construction project, inspection might involve checking the structural integrity of the building, verifying that the materials used meet the required specifications, and ensuring that the construction work adheres to the building codes. Any issues identified during inspection can be addressed immediately to prevent future problems.
3. Test
Testing involves evaluating project deliverables through various methods to ensure they meet the specified quality requirements. This process includes functional testing, performance testing, and user acceptance testing. Testing helps in validating that the project outputs function as intended and meet the stakeholders' expectations.
Example: In a marketing campaign, testing might involve conducting A/B tests on different versions of a marketing email to determine which version performs better in terms of open rates and click-through rates. The results of these tests can be used to optimize the campaign and improve its effectiveness.