Successful programs are lean, with efficient documentation that follow the standard's requirements and utilize effective procedures. This Quality Management System (QMS) is implemented and supported by executive level management.

You need to know the QMS game is rigged and you need to know the clues.  If you don't follow our clues, an effective QMS cannot be implemented and may result in lost business.

Clue # 1 - If upper level management is not committed to fully understand, support, implement and allocate necessary resources to your documented QMS; don’t bother to start because your efforts will fail.

Clue # 2 - If your QMS does not address the following adequately, you will have major problems:

• Management Responsibility

• Corrective & Preventive Action

• Internal Quality Audits

• Documented Records of Management Reviews 

Clue # 3 - Documentation that does not address what you actually do, address the “shall's” in the standards and produce records to show compliance will cause you major heartburn and will not give you the desired result.

Clue # 4 - Bulky, non-efficient documentation that is not user friendly results in poor understanding, nonuse, an ineffective QMS and many non-conformances.

Clue # 5 - The standards are developed for you to control your business processes. Customer requirements and other regulatory influences must be documented and your records are expected to be complete and reflect compliance to the standard and your procedures.

Clue # 6 - The intent is to give your business a structure with checks and balances to enhance quality of service and product for your customers. Management will ensure suitable training for employees through procedures and work instruction which will make training of new hires more efficient.

Clue # 7 - It is imperative you understand that these standards are in your business' best interest.  Don’t get caught up in the idea that accomplishing the requirements is to appease the auditor. Dealing with a QMS Auditor is like wrestling with a pig in the mud; sooner or later you realize the auditor enjoys it! (You must read the article on our web site - "Audit Pigs".) 

Clue # 8 - The interpretation and how to apply the appropriate standard to your organization can be trusted to professionals like Quality Specialists. Or, you can be your own advocate and study. There are many available resources on the web. You may want to start with our Quality Links Page.