Relationship of TQM, QA, QS and QC

[CrimpJiggler]

In this diagram:
http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/3012/tqmo.png
what exactly are they trying to convey as in, what is the relationship between TQM, QA, QS and QC? Does each outer circle encapsulate all the inner circles? For example, it QA a part of TQM, while QS is a part of QA etc.? I thought that QA and QC were 2 different things, I didn't think QC was just a subcategory of QA.

 

[Mike H]

No idea what QS stands for here, but in the way of examples (at least as I understand the terms - if it's still not clear, I really can't be of much more help - maybe go bug the industrial engineers or MBAs?)...

Quality Control - random batch testing of a product to ensure that it does what it is intended to do.

Quality Assurance - makes sure that the testing protocols are up to date and followed, checks qualifications and records of the QC division staff (so as to check that they are knowledgeable and capable to do the testing), and the like

Total Quality Management - some sort of business management philosophy that I've never entirely cared enough to figure out what they mean. :)

 

[CrimpJiggler]

Sorry, QS stands for quality system. According to my lecture notes, things like GMP, GLP and ISO 9000 are quality systems. Thanks a lot for your reply, I've read about 20 explanations of what QA and QC are and I'm still confused as hell about it all. Your practical, straight to the point explanations make way more sense to me.

 

[chemisttree]

Just interpret your diagram in terms of subset/superset terms. ie. QC is a subset of QA and both are subsets of TQM.

 

[LudusRex]

The diagram is attempting to convey the relationship between the concepts of Total Quality Management (TQM), Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Systems (QS), and Quality Control (QC). TQM is the overarching philosophy and approach to managing quality within an organization, while QA, QS, and QC are specific tools and techniques used to implement TQM.

In this diagram, each outer circle encapsulates all the inner circles, indicating that TQM encompasses QA, QS, and QC. This means that TQM is the highest level of quality management and incorporates all aspects of quality control and assurance.

QA is a part of TQM, as it is a systematic process of ensuring that products or services meet specified requirements and standards. QS is a part of QA, as it refers to the overall quality management system within an organization, including processes, procedures, and documentation. Finally, QC is a part of QA as it involves the specific activities and techniques used to monitor and control the quality of products or services.

It is important to note that while QA and QC are often used interchangeably, they are actually two distinct concepts. QA focuses on preventing defects and ensuring that processes are in place to consistently produce high-quality products or services, while QC involves inspecting and testing products or services to identify and correct any defects.

In summary, TQM encompasses all aspects of quality management, including QA, QS, and QC. Each inner circle represents a specific aspect or tool used to achieve the overall goal of TQM, which is to continuously improve the quality of products or services.