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.
I agree with the following statements:
1. Quality should be focused on the customer’s needs.
2. Quality should be considered from the beginning of the project.
3. The execution phase of a project is the most critical to achieve quality targets.
4. Quality issues should be discussed openly to find corrective actions.
I agree with the fact that quality should prioritize the customers need and should be considered from the project Inception not just for the client’s sake because at the end there are two parties involved the project team and the client and when quality is not delivered it sends across a wrong signal .The project team should not put all their focus on just meeting the deadline of the workt but should ensure quality is considered from the beginning of the project.
With an academic background in Food Science and Technology, Quality is driven by and measured by the needs of the customers. The quality control department monitors each process at every point, and the quality assurance team oversees the targets and provides solutions to quality issues. Adequate supervision is needed as many workers tend to get tired and bored easily and get carried away by meeting production targets while missing out on the quality of the final product. Keeping quality issues from customers is necessary as the first impression will last long with them whereas in most cases, quality issues arise from quality inputs approved by the managers, and with that, there should be communications with the management to approve quality inputs for subsequent production.
I agree that quality should be based on the customer’s needs and considered from the beginning of the project. Concerns related to quality issues should be open and discussed critically for taking corrective action and improvements. Individuals want quality work at the end of the day, but the working environment should be supportive. Concealing quality problems from customers or managers is detrimental, as transparency builds trust and fosters a culture of integrity. Overall, a customer-centric approach and proactive quality management are key.
Members of the project team shouldn’t just focus on getting the work done on time and within the budget but should ensure quality is considered from the beginning of the project. As I have learned, the quality of deliverables is fundamental to achieving project objectives and shouldn’t be relegated at any point.
Quality should be considered from the very beginning of a project. Here’s why I think so:
1. Sets the tone: Establishing quality expectations early on sets the tone for the entire project.
2. Reduces rework: Identifying quality standards upfront minimizes the need for costly rework later on.
3. Influences design: Quality considerations can impact design decisions, ensuring a more robust and reliable outcome.
4. Guides planning: Quality objectives inform planning, ensuring adequate time and resources are allocated.
5. Enhances collaboration: Clear quality expectations promote teamwork and collaboration among team members.
6. Manages stakeholder expectations: Early quality considerations help manage stakeholder expectations and requirements.
7. Improves overall outcome: Prioritizing quality from the start leads to a better overall outcome, meeting or exceeding stakeholder expectations.
Quality should be focused on internally in other to assist problem solving of basic customers needs, Organizations put in efforts in training of staffs with necessary skills to enhance the growth of an organization.
Quality should be considered from project inception because it enhances successful project outcomes and assist in aligning project with stakeholders, improve risk management .Project execution, discussion with team members are crucial factors a project manager should put into consideration in every project.
Adewale Bisola Bootcamp 16 Group 1
Reflection on the statements about quality:
*Agree:*
1. *Quality should be focused on the customer’s needs*: Understanding customer requirements and expectations is crucial to delivering quality products or services.
2. *Quality should be considered from the beginning of the project*: Integrating quality into project planning and design ensures a strong foundation for quality outcomes.
3. *Quality issues should be discussed openly to find corrective actions*: Transparency and open communication are essential for identifying and addressing quality issues.
*Disagree:*
1. *Quality is focused internally*: While internal processes are important, quality should ultimately focus on meeting customer needs and expectations.
2. *The execution phase of a project is the most critical to achieve quality targets*: Quality should be considered throughout the project lifecycle, not just during execution.
3. *Quality problems should be hidden from customers and possibly also managers*: Transparency and honesty are essential for building trust and improving quality.
4. *Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision*: This statement undermines the capabilities of team members and ignores the importance of empowerment and trust in delivering quality outputs.
*Neutral:*
1. *People are keen on producing quality outputs*: While some individuals may be motivated to produce quality outputs, others may require guidance, training, or incentives to do so.
By reflecting on these statements, I reinforce my commitment to customer-centric quality, open communication, and empowering team members to deliver their best work.
I agree with below:
1. Quality should be focused on the customers’ needs.
2. Quality is focused internally.
3. Quality should be considered from the beginning of the project.
4. Quality issues should be openly discussed to find corrective actions.
5. People are keen on producing quality outputs.
6. The execution phase of a project is the most critical to achieving quality targets.
Odinfe David Chika
Cohort16
I agree that
Quality should prioritize customers needs
Quality should be considered from the project inception
Quality issues should be openly discussed to identify corrective actions