Quality Assurance Plan
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Quality Assurance Plan |
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The SA-TECH Quality program is a comprehensive program compliant with ANSI/ASQC-Q9001-2000.
The foundation and focus of SA-TECH's Quality System is the ANSI/ASQC Q9001-2000 standards, and our Process Improvement Model. Both of these elements are implemented in all areas where products and services are produced. All processes that are used to produce our deliverable products and services will be defined and documented. The following is SA-TECH's continuous process improvement flow chart.
The Q9001 Quality System standard is applied to all areas. All process documentation activities will conform to the 20 quality elements of ANSI/ASQC Q9001. Adherence to these standards and to our processes is enforced through periodic audits performed by internal auditors.
Each SEAPORT functional area's processes are subjected to the Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) Cycle detailed in the aforementioned flow chart. This cycle has four phases: Plan, Do, Check, and Act. During each phase, there is one activity to be performed against the process being measured and improved. There are ten activities for each CPI Cycle. In order for our Process Improvement Model to operate, there needs to be process procedures, defined tools, and trained personnel. Without these three elements, the Process Improvement Model breaks down and process improvement is not possible.
For existing processes the CPI cycle starts at the Act Phase. For new ones the Cycle starts at the Plan Phase. Each time a process goes through a CPI Cycle, each of the ten activities are performed. Cycle frequency is directly related to process improvement. One of the main elements of the CPI Cycle is the collection of quantitative measurement data and the evaluation of that data. Evaluated process measurement data is used to make adjustments to the process, tools and environment to improve the process. Without measurement data, a process cannot be evaluated or improved.
All supervisory personnel are trained in the use of our Process Improvement Model and are responsible for its implementation. Process operating personnel are trained to perform their process and are provided the necessary tools. To ensure implementation of the model, we perform ISO Internal Audits in all areas. These internal audits identify any non-conformances and verify the existence and implementation of the Process Improvement Model. The model places ownership of the Quality System in the hands of the personnel providing our products and services. This Quality System ensures that quality is built into products and services versus relying on an inspection program.
Within each of the SEAPORT task orders, an Internal Auditor will be selected to perform the role of an ISO 9000 Program Advocate to help ensure the momentum of the ISO 9000 Program. He or she fields questions about the Program, helps institutionalize the Program and promotes ownership of the Quality System at all levels. Our senior staff meets regularly with the Program Advocates to discuss our Quality System processes, trends, and improvement possibilities. Information gathered during these meetings is provided to our Strategic Planning Council (SPC).
SA-TECH's Quality System Features: