The Procurement Glossary » Quality Control (QC)
Quality Control (QC)
Compliance & Risk
Definition
The inspection and testing of goods to detect defects and confirm they meet specification.
Explanation
QC is reactive and detective — checking incoming or produced goods against the spec. Failed items become non-conformances triggering corrective action. It complements the preventive focus of quality assurance.
Example
QC inspects a sample of each delivery; a batch failing the check is quarantined and rejected.
Related terms
- Quality Assurance (QA) — The proactive processes that ensure goods and services will meet required quality standards.
- Quality Inspection — The act of examining delivered goods against defined criteria, often at goods receipt.
- Non-Conformance — A failure of a product, service or process to meet its specified requirements.
- Acceptance — The buyer's formal confirmation that delivered goods or services meet the agreed requirements, often triggering payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quality Control (QC)?
The inspection and testing of goods to detect defects and confirm they meet specification. QC is reactive and detective — checking incoming or produced goods against the spec. Failed items become non-conformances triggering corrective action. It complements the preventive focus of quality assurance.
Can you give an example of Quality Control (QC)?
QC inspects a sample of each delivery; a batch failing the check is quarantined and rejected.
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