Understanding Quality Control (QC)

Quality control involves testing units and determining if they are within the
specifications for the final product. The purpose of the testing is to determine
any need for corrective actions in the manufacturing process. Good quality control
helps companies meet consumer demands for better products.

Why Is QC Needed?
Creating a product is costly, time-consuming, and can be unsafe without controls in
place. Additionally, if a company sends defective products out for purchase, it
could be held liable for injuries or issues that arise from using its products.
Quality control inspectors ensure that defective or unsafe products are identified,
and the causes are corrected.

How Is It Done?
Quality testing is generally completed in each step of a manufacturing or business
process. Employees often begin by testing raw materials, pulling samples from the
manufacturing line, and testing the finished product. Testing at the various stages
of manufacturing helps identify where a production problem is occurring and the
remedial steps it requires to prevent it in the future.

In a non-manufacturing business, quality testing can involve customer service

evaluations, questionnaires, surveys, inspections, or audits. A business can use
any process or method to verify that its end product or service meets the
customer's needs and is safe and legal.