Quality Audit
A quality audit is the procedure of systematic evaluation and examination or inspection of a quality system usually done by an external or internal quality auditor or team of auditors. It is a vital element of an organisation’s quality management structure. It is also a vital part of the ISO quality system standard.
Quality audits are done at predetermined time intervals. They try to make sure that the organisation has clearly defined internal monitoring procedures connected to effective proceedings. These audits help in finding out if the organisation is compliant with quality processes.
The upgrades of the ISO9000 series standards have made audits focus from adherence to procedures towards the measuring of the actual effectiveness of the Quality Management Systems (QMS). The results were achieved through the implementation of QMS.
Audits are important management tools that are used in the verification of objective evidences of processes. They help review how successfully are processes implemented, as well as in judging the effectiveness of achieving defined target levels and in providing evidence on the reduction and elimination of problem areas. For the organisation’s sake, quality audit should not only report on non-conformances and corrective actions. They should also highlight areas of good practice. This help other departments to share information and alter working practices to contribute to continuous or continual improvement.
Audits are sometimes used for safety purposes. They are powerful safety monitoring techniques and are an effective process that avoids complacency and highlight deteriorating conditions.
If you have a small business, you may sometimes find running it complicated and overwhelming especially when you consider the many duties you have. However, running a business may give you rewarding experiences. Managing a business involves setting standards on how the company operates. A way to take your business to the next level involves performing regular quality audits or hiring professional audit services.
Quality audit reviews and evaluates an element of a business to ensure that it is meeting certain standards. These standards vary. They can be set by the owner or follow standards set by the industry you are in.
The Types Of Quality Audits
Quality audits may apply to various aspects of a business. A quality audit may be performed on the inventory or service you provide to assure that they are acceptable for consumption by the public. This type of audit is important for products or services that could pose a threat to public safety. There are some businesses who perform quality audits on their employees, particularly on how the employees perform in their work or job. This is important in atmospheres where workers directly interact with customers. Businesses may also perform quality audits on management. This requires a third-party evaluator for small companies. Data quality audits can also be performed on information databases used by the company.
What is the significance of quality audits?
Doing quality audits are important because they ensure that the business is going to offer value to the public. They help sell high-quality products and employ high-quality customer service personnel that can fuel future sales. Quality audit is also useful in advertising the business. It helps inform the public that the company is committed to high-quality standards. Regular audits help increase consumer confidence in the business. Regular quality audits also protect the business from issues that might arise from selling poor quality products.
Some businesses seek ISO9001 certification from the ISO. Others seek Six Sigma training and certification to improve the business and ensure quality. A business should study and meet the standards set by these organisations before becoming certified. Certifications can help keep the business competitive.
Organisations should monitor the quality of the services they deliver to keep their reputation and keep customers satisfied. This will, in the long run, generate repeat business.
Quality audit helps businesses keep up with the high standards set by an industry or a certifying body like the ISO. Keeping the good quality of products and services delivered to the public will set the business apart from the rest of the competition. It also helps business owners know what they could improve on and make necessary alterations to the business processes. Quality audit can make the business better in general as well as the services and the products they offer.
Kingston Knight Audit are the Auditor Melbourne experts to contact when dealing with your trust account audit, SMSF Audit, financial statement audit, and internal audit requirements. Contact us today, Kingston & Knight Audit offers a free telephone consultation to establish how we can best help you achieve the assurance and compliance you require.
Call our Melbourne team today on 03 9088 2242, or email us via audit@kingstonknightaudit.com.au.
