4.3

Quality management

9 flashcards to master Quality management

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Definition Flip

Answer Flip

Key Concept Flip

Explain the main difference between 'quality control' and 'quality assurance'.

Answer Flip

Quality control involves checking products at the end of the production process to identify defects. Quality assurance focuses on preventing defects throughout the entire production process by implementing quality standards and procedures at every stage.

Example: regularly calibrating machines.
Definition Flip

What is 'Total Quality Management' (TQM)?

Answer Flip

TQM is a management approach that focuses on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction through the involvement of all employees. It emphasizes quality in all aspects of a business's operations, from product design to customer service. Toyota's production system is a good example.

Key Concept Flip

Describe the benefits of implementing ISO 9000 standards.

Answer Flip

Implementing ISO 9000 provides a framework for quality management, which can lead to improved efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced customer satisfaction, and increased market access. It also gives a company credibility and shows commitment to quality.

Example: greater investor confidence.
Definition Flip

Explain what 'benchmarking' involves as a quality management tool.

Answer Flip

Benchmarking involves comparing a business's performance or processes against those of leading competitors or industry best practices. This helps identify areas for improvement and set realistic quality targets. It is used to find strategies that allow companies to improve their performance. An example is comparing customer service times to a leading firm.

Key Concept Flip

Why are 'quality standards' important for businesses?

Answer Flip

Quality standards ensure consistency and reliability in products or services, leading to increased customer trust and loyalty. They also help businesses meet legal requirements and reduce the risk of product recalls or liabilities. One quality standard example is the British Kite Mark.

Key Concept Flip

How does 'quality management' directly affect 'customer satisfaction'?

Answer Flip

Effective quality management leads to products and services that consistently meet or exceed customer expectations, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Satisfied customers are more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend the business to others. High quality can increase the perceived value of a product or service.

Key Concept Flip

Discuss two limitations of using quality control as a quality management approach.

Answer Flip

Quality control can be expensive as it often requires hiring inspectors, and it only identifies defects at the end of the production process, leading to wasted resources. It can also be demotivating for workers, who may not feel responsible for quality. More defects may occur.

Key Concept Flip

Explain how 'employee training' contributes to improved quality in a business.

Answer Flip

Employee training provides workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their tasks effectively and consistently, reducing errors and improving the quality of products or services. Well-trained employees are more likely to understand quality standards and take ownership of their work. Increased training reduces human error.

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4.2 Costs, scale of production and break-even analysis 4.4 Location decisions

Key Questions: Quality management

What is 'Total Quality Management' (TQM)?

TQM is a management approach that focuses on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction through the involvement of all employees. It emphasizes quality in all aspects of a business's operations, from product design to customer service. Toyota's production system is a good example.

Explain what 'benchmarking' involves as a quality management tool.

Benchmarking involves comparing a business's performance or processes against those of leading competitors or industry best practices. This helps identify areas for improvement and set realistic quality targets. It is used to find strategies that allow companies to improve their performance. An example is comparing customer service times to a leading firm.

About Quality management (4.3)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Quality management for your Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies (0450) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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