The application of quality metrics in industrial manufacturing allows engineering teams to measure the effectiveness of production processes with the goal of improving productivity and driving peak performance. However, we need to know which indicators are capable of providing meaningful insight. That is why, in this article, we explain what quality parameters are, what they are used for and what their typology is.
What are quality parameters and what is their usefulness?
They are criteria used to measure success in relation to a set of goals that have to do with production performance, efficiency, effectiveness and user satisfaction. However, they are not only concerned with the perception obtained by customers or how to use these parameters in the design of a product to achieve the culmination of the objectives, but in terms of quality or performance they establish a measurement process consistent with the purpose of the product. Similarly, we can use these indicators as a planned and systematic means of ensuring that defined process standards, practices, procedures and methods are applied. Their purpose is, on the one hand, to be able to carry out the detection of defects in the components and, on the other hand, to ensure achievement of the best article in feasible terms.
In parallel, we can define the quality of a product as its ability to satisfy what the end user desires and perceives as value.
For this to be fulfilled, it must be reliable and able to perform all its functions without problems. And this is where the importance of applying this type of indicators lies, for example, in the quality control phases of processed foods, materials or any other type of product.
ISO standard: parameters for measuring the quality of industrial products
ISO 9000 corresponds to the internationally accepted standard for product quality management and is the standard that governs quality parameters in industrial processes. In this respect, it considers quality perspectives in relation to manufacturing and the consumer. In addition, it is based on certain principles such as customer orientation, process approach, continuous improvement or decision making, to name but a few.
Types of quality indicators
There are several perspectives that we can take into account when establishing the factors on which we are going to base our determination of quality. Here are some of the most common views of product quality indicators:
- Product-focused: The specific and measurable functions it possesses are evaluated.
- Manufacturing-focused: The desirable result of the implementation of the design and its conformity to specifications is measured.
- User-oriented: The set of features and characteristics that are capable of meeting or exceeding customer needs are taken into account.
Application and examples of quality indicators
When applying parameters in the quality control of a product we can focus on the measurement of the following characteristics:
1. Functionality
The ability to satisfy established needs is one of the main quality parameters. What it determines is whether the product can do what it says it can do with certainty and repeatability.
2. Durability
This is an essential aspect of product quality and customer perception, as those with this feature prove to be durable for the intended period of use and even longer.
3. Reliability
Good quality items and materials generate confidence by performing as they should, which is essential in any industry.
4. Efficiency
The quality of a product refers not only to its performance, but also to the way it does the job and saves costs, such as repair costs.
5. Safety
Safety is one of the basic requirements that every production process must meet to avoid generating problems.
6. Appearance
A product that has an adequate finish and complies with logical aesthetic principles, such as no rough edges or poor visual quality, will be much more competitive in the market and will attract more consumers.
7. User satisfaction
Emphasizes the product’s ability to improve the customer’s life. This is in line with results-based innovation and item optimization.
In short, the greatest advantage of using quality parameters in production processes is that they establish a framework for measuring quality, performance, development, continuous improvement and, at the same time, provide a reliable and objective basis for decision making.
At Infinitia we can help you improve the quality of your products and materials. We have a team of forensic engineering experts with extensive experience in developing innovative improvements. Contact our materials innovation team and we will offer you the best solution.