Implementation of Quality Management System

After understanding the requirements of quality management system we will now discuss the implementation of the quality management system. Different steps in the implementation of quality management system are described below in brief.

i. Decision by the management

Depending upon various considerations such as market forces, economics,acceptance by the work force, competitors in the field etc management has to take the decision wheather to go for the implementation of the system.

ii. Formation of steering committee/Project Group/Task Force

Depending on the nature and size of the organization 2 or 3 tier structure has to be set up to look after the entire project.

iii. Awareness and training

From the initial stage of implementation of the system awareness and training of various levels is necessary.

iv. Defining Quality Policy

Once the decision is taken to implement the system, the first step is to define organizations commitment to quality by establishing quality policy of the organization and made known to all in the organization.

v. Initial assessment and diagnostic

The second stage involves carrying out a review of the practices being followed within the organization before stalling the system.

vi. Preparation of action plan

After carrying out the initial assessment and analysis an action plan is to be drawn listing various tasks to be carried out and the persons responsible for these tasks.

vii. Establishment of quality objectives

Quality objectives are established at relevant functions and levels in the organizations.

viii. Development of Documented system

Documentation includes any written or pictorial information’s describing defining, specifying, reporting or certifying activities requirements, procedures or results. Such documents include quality manual procedures, customers, contracts, product standards, statutory documents, regulatory documents,customers specifications and service level agreements.

ix. Implementation of Documented Systems

It can be done either in phases in different areas or all the areas can be covered at same time if the organization is small.

x. Appraisal and review of the implemented system

It is divided into 2 sub phases internal auditing and management review.

xi. Pre-assessment or trial assessment

When system deficiencies are no longer visible from an effective internal audit and management review, company/ organization can put an application for certification. However it is advisable for the organization to organize preassessment before final audit by a certified body.

xii. Quality management system certification

In this case the audit is done by a third party/ agency and it gives a certificate or conformity that a product system or service confirms to specified requirements.