Turning the acceptance sampling method to a quality improvement tool (Part 2)

Many experts believe that acceptance sampling is only a half-way test between non-testing and full testing. They also emphasize that this sampling method is not reliable enough to become a quality improvement tool, because the conclusion after sampling is still only about “accepting” or “rejecting” the shipment.

So how to turn the acceptance sampling method into a quality improvement tool?

Here’s how: Controllers use acceptable sampling methods to check the output, here are some typical products (can be selected randomly or only include products). errors). During the test, for example checking the product attributes with ANSI/ASQ Z1.4, the error code and the reason for the error are noted with the supplier name, product code, batch number and many other important fields, etc all are saved in the database with the support of SPC software. By capturing valuable data, inspectors will build up case studies that correspond to each failure, and traceability to them.

Benefits of collecting audit data

Imagine what you can do when you always have typical lessons for reference anywhere. Acceptance sampling now not only plays a role of quality control, but also contributes to building a typical lesson library for the organization. In addition, data is also used for analyzing many other aspects of the management process:

• Control charts, Pareto charts and other statistical tools can be used to analyze sample data.
• The degree of material defects among suppliers can be compared.
• Significant changes over time in the defect rate (PPM) can be identified.
• Control (or lack of control) in the supplier’s process can be determined.

The quality comparison of suppliers indicates which potential partners of the organization, at the same time, the source of raw materials also partly determines the quality of the final product and the error rate. Improving the quality of raw materials also means organizing significant savings in production costs.

Productivity and Quality Office