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.

In my view, i agree with 1, 2 5, and 7 and not 6 because those two are important to the growth of any organization hiding from customers is ethically wrong and I also do not agree with 8
I agree with:
Quality should prioritize the customer’s needs.
Quality should be considered from the project’s inception.
Quality issues should be openly discussed to identify corrective actions.
From my point of view, points 1 – 5 and 7 is agreeable with me. I don’t agree with point 6 that says quality problems should be concealed from the customers and managers.
The customers and managers can contribute positively and help find solutions to any problem that might crop up with quality in question.
Point 8 that says team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision does not go well with me either. Ones quality is part of the goal set at the beginning and the right tools are accessible, I don’t see any reason why team members will not be able to deliver quality projects without close supervision.
In my opinion quality should be focused on customers need. The customers are the end user of the product or services rendered so it is important we focus on customers satisfaction.
Hi, i disagree with point 6,7,8. Proper communication, engagement, empathy etc must be engaged from the beginning. The role of a pm is to carry every team member on the same page. Motivation can make them work on their own if not quality will not be produced.
Quality should be considered from the project’s inception.
This statement resonates deeply with me because when quality is considered from the beginning of a project, all the processes and implementation concernig that project would be “fit for use”
Quality is an internal focus.
I equally agree with this statement. the internal focus would come from the client, team and execution process in all, the organisation
I agree with the following:
-Quality should be focused on the customer’s needs.
-Quality is focused internally.
-Quality should be considered from the beginning of the project.
-The execution phase of a project is the most critical to achieve quality targets.
-Quality issues should be discussed openly to find corrective actions.
-People are keen on producing quality outputs.
-Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision.
Quality should prioritize the customer’s needs.
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.
With the recent definition of QUALITY by APM, I agree to the following listed statements:
The end users of a project or product are fundamental as such the quality of the project should prioritize their needs. From the project inception, planning, and execution stage Quality should be on the front burner and be openly discussed by all stakeholders involved as this will help mitigate future issues (RISK) and increase stakeholders satisfaction.
My thoughts as i reflect on this statement about quality; Considering quality from the beginning of a project is crucial for achieving successful outcomes. By integrating quality considerations at the outset, project teams can align their efforts with the goal of delivering outputs that meet the specified requirements and are fit for intended purpose. This proactive approach helps to prevent rework, cost overruns, and schedule delays that can result from addressing quality issues later in the project lifecycle. Furthermore, early focus on quality underscores the importance of understanding and prioritizing stakeholder needs, which is fundamental to delivering value and fostering stakeholder satisfaction. Therefore, embedding a quality mindset from the project’s inception is essential for promoting efficiency, effectiveness and overall project success,
The following statements i agree with about Quality:
-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.
-Team members do not produce quality outputs without close supervision.
– Individuals are enthusiastic about producing quality outcomes.