Various definitions of the concept of quality have been put forward.
One generic definition (Pass, 2006b) is as follows:
The overall characteristics of a product or service that fulfill the requirements of customers in terms of quality.
This definition aligns with the viewpoint of Joseph Juran, who, in the 1950s, defined quality as ‘fitness for use’ (as quoted in ASQ, 2019).
This definition is largely consistent with the definition of quality provided by APM (2019, p. 214):
The suitability for the intended purpose and the degree to which the output of a process or the process itself conforms to the requirements.
Now take a moment to consider the following statements about quality. Which ones do you agree with?
- Quality should prioritize the customer’s needs.
- Quality is an internal focus.
- Quality should be considered from the project’s inception.
- The execution phase of a project is crucial for achieving quality goals.
- Quality issues should be openly discussed to identify corrective actions.
- Quality problems should be concealed from customers and possibly managers.
- Individuals are enthusiastic about producing high-quality outcomes.
- Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision.
Share your thoughts on these statements in the discussion section below.
Quality means using the organization’s objectives and value system achieve the requirements of a client. I believe quality should considered right from team formation to project planning then to execution.
The Ethics and norms that a particular organization has will determine the team output.
Quality should prioritize the customer’s needs – Yes, a project manager is focused on delivering quality value and not just any value to the customer.
Quality is an internal focus – Internal focus to the team working on the project.
Quality should be considered from the project’s inception – yes, it’s important the team is motivated to delivering quality value
The execution phase of a project is crucial for achieving quality goals. – Yes, I agree
Quality issues should be openly discussed to identify corrective actions. – Yes, amongst the team.
Quality problems should be concealed from customers and possibly managers. – Yes, if it can’t be managed but if not No
Individuals are enthusiastic about producing high-quality outcomes. – Yes, providing you have been able to motivate your team or have a self driven team.
Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision.-It depends on the kind of the team. Not all teams are same.
I agree that quality should be considered from the Inception of the project, that way team members become more inclined towards making sure that the project outcome is fit for use.
When we talk about quality. Quality should be discussed upon execution of the project so resources will be made available for the level of quality the projects needs. Based on No 3&4. The level of quality should be discussed upon inception of the project.
I agree with the following statements about quality:
Quality should be focused on the customer’s needs. This is the ultimate aim – to provide something that meets the expectations and solves the problems of the customer.
Quality should be considered from the beginning of the project. By planning for quality from the outset, you can avoid rework and ensure you’re on the right track from the start.
Quality issues should be discussed openly to find corrective actions. Transparency is key. Identifying and addressing problems early helps to improve processes and prevent future issues.
People are keen on producing quality outputs. People generally want to do a good job. Providing the right tools, training, and environment can help them achieve their best work.
I disagree with these statements:
Quality is focused internally. While internal processes are important, true quality is defined by how well it meets the customer’s needs.
The execution phase of a project is the most critical to achieve quality targets. While execution is important, setting clear expectations and having good quality planning throughout all phases is essential.
Quality problems should be hidden from customers and possibly also managers. This can lead to bigger problems down the line. It’s better to be upfront about issues and work together to find solutions.
Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision. This can be a demotivator. Trusting and empowering team members can lead to better results.
Quality is a multidimensional concept encompassing the degree of excellence or superiority inherent in a product, service, process, or experience. It reflects the fulfillment of requirements, specifications, and expectations while considering attributes such as reliability, durability, functionality, efficiency, safety, usability, and satisfaction. Quality involves meeting or exceeding established standards and consistently delivering outcomes that meet or surpass customer needs and preferences. Additionally, it entails a commitment to continuous improvement, striving for perfection, and adapting to evolving demands and circumstances.
Accordingly to how Joseph juran defines quality as the fitness of use and APM Defines quality as the fitness for purpose and degree of conformance.
So for me I agree with all the points given out but for the no 6 which says quality problem should be hidden from customers and possible also the managers,I agree with hidden it from the customers but not with the managers cause I think problems are to be treated together with the managers.
I agree with all the quality statement mentioned above but i believe that no 6 should be talked about and probably worked upon.
This is my take on the issue in discussion, as important as all the points from 1-8 may seem but I will like to agree more on the 3&5th points that quality should be considered from the inception and quality issue should be discussed and correct. I will conclude by saying that points 4&8 the execution phase and team members not being followed up with close supervision is were we miss out on quality due pressure of meeting dead line on project.
I secund to all the statements above, but I would like to buttress more on team member attitude towards quality when they are not supervised. sometimes team members focus on just getting the job done without considering rhe quality of the job and if not well supervised by the project manager to make corrections, it could end up turning out to sending another person or team to sort it out after the project has been delivered.