Quality Control - Summary
Quality Control Summary
For three weeks now, we have looked at Quality Control in its three stages – preproduction, production, and postproduction. One thing that was common through these stages was the use of check-lists and/or "score cards”, as well as the use of counter-samples.
During preproduction, the selection of raw materials and the use of counter samples by all those involved in the process were key elements before moving forward.
Once production began, effective quality control needed to be in place. This meant that there was a need to maintain counter sample originals of the sample sent to the buyer; to check quality control at multiple points throughout the process; to use a thorough quality control checklist; and to provide all artisan groups with a copy of the same list.
The last “check” of quality control came during postproduction. Since products are not uniform, measures need to be taken in order to assure that such products are adequately packaged and packed before shipment. Good quality control does not end until buyers get their products in "one piece"
Out of the comments provided during the discussion, three important issues were pointed out:
1- The “check lists” are in place in one way or another. For some organizations it’s a well implemented system, while for others, the responsibility is on the producer’s side, and rewards exist for those who do a good job with quality control.
2- There were questions on how much effort and money must be spent in implementing quality control check points, and whether who would cover the extra expense for creating such elaborate systems for quality control.
3- While packing and packaging had several suggestions on how to make sure items made it in “one piece”, and alternative options for more eco-friendly and sturdy packing was given; the big questions still remain regarding what to do with shipping companies that have no vested interested in the boxes being sent.
We appreciate the participation of artisans and partners from Argentina, Peru, India, Kenya, Nepal, Palestine, the Philippines, and the United States to make of this on-line forum a success.
We also want to give a special thanks to Zoe Dean-Smith, Senior Director, Artisan Export for Vital Voices/Global Partnership in Swaziland, for her contribution with the “score cards” document.
Please feel free to revisit our forum and post comments if you like. You can click here to view this forum in a document version to complement your training materials.