Quality assessors and auditors, whether in the context of manufacturing, service delivery, or any other field, ask a variety of questions to evaluate and ensure that quality standards are met. The specific questions they ask can vary depending on the industry and the nature of the work being assessed.
But here are some common questions a quality assessor might ask:
What are the quality standards and criteria for this product or service? understanding the established quality benchmarks is essential before assessing anything.
Is the process documented and followed? Assessors may want to ensure that the established processes are being followed consistently.
Are the materials/components used in compliance with specifications and standards? This is crucial for manufacturing and construction projects.
Have all safety regulations and protocols been followed? This is especially important in industries where safety is a concern, such as construction or healthcare.
What are the critical control points in the process? Identifying key stages in a process where quality control is critical.
Are there any deviations or non-conformities from the standards? Identifying and documenting any issues or deviations from the expected quality.
What are some corrective actions that have been taken for previously identified issues? This is to ensure problems are addressed and resolved effectively.
Are there any customer complaints or feedback regarding quality? Understanding the customer's perspective on quality is vital.
Are the measuring instruments and tools calibrated and accurate? Ensuring that measurement tools are in good condition and provide accurate results.
Is there proper documentation of quality records and reports? Assessing the completeness and accuracy of quality-related documentation.
How do you stay up to date with changes in regulations or standards in your industry? Staying up-to-date with relevant regulations and standards is crucial for compliance.
How do you know how to perform your role? Are employees adequately trained and competent to perform their tasks? Ensuring that the workforce has the necessary skills and knowledge.
What opportunities for process improvement have you identified or been involved in? Identifying areas where processes could be optimized for better quality.
What is the overall satisfaction level of stakeholders (customers, employees, suppliers) regarding quality? Evaluating the broader impact of quality on all stakeholders.
Have there been any recent incidents or near-misses related to quality or safety? Investigating any incidents that might have occurred and analyzing their root causes.
Are there any potential risks to the quality of the product or service? Identifying and assessing risks that could impact quality.
Is there a system in place for continuous quality monitoring and improvement? Ensuring that quality is not just assessed once but is an ongoing process.
What is the cost of quality (including prevention and correction costs)? Though many staff will not be able to give a monetary value, this will indicate the level of understanding of the financial aspects of maintaining and improving quality.
These questions can serve as a starting point for quality assessors, but they may need to tailor their inquiries to the specific context and requirements of their organization or industry. The goal is always to maintain and improve the quality of products or services while ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.