Quality Defined:

Quality is a characteristic that determines a products value in the market and how well it will perform the function for which it was designed. The quality of a product is measured in terms of the degree of conformance with a particular product standard.

In manufacturing a product, the following elements of control must be applied to the quality dimensions of the product.

(a) Measure the quality characteristics
(b) Compare actual results to the standard
(c)  Take corrective action when the deviation between actual results and the standard exceeds tolerable limits.

Dimensions Of Quality:

Quality is not a single characteristic but multi-dimensional. The dimensions of quality are:

1. Functionality—This refers to whether the product performs its function at the end of the manufacturing process or when it is first put to use.

2. Reliability—How long will the product function under normal conditions? A product should perform perfectly from the first time to the completion of its life span.

3. Durability—How well and how long will the product function under adverse conditions? e.g heat, cold, dust and other conditions that it reasonably might be expected to encounter?

4. Aesthetics Characteristics—This refers to the appearance of the product and is not necessarily related to its function. The smoothness of the surfaces, the symmetry of decorative design and the absence of dents, or scratches illustrate this dimension.

5. Safety—Will the product perform its function without endangering the user? A high quality product can not be produced unless all these aspects have been considered.

Quality is a matter of concern for every organisation involved in the production of goods and services. Cheap or inferior goods or services ruins the competitiveness of the organisation. Hence many organisations are setting up quality improvement standards (ISO 9000 certification) ISO – International Standards Organisation.

Quality certification has gained momentum in Kenya in the last decade hence most organisations are going for

ISO 9000 certification:

ISO 9000 certification is a quality system certification which is recognised worldwide as the ultimate yardstick for testing organisations and business commitments to excellence. It is issued under stringent measurement that are recognised and documented internationally. It considers quality across designs, product, procedures and the entire institutional chains.