World Quality Day-2023 & Deep Drive in Theme, “Quality: Realising Your Competitive Potential”

World Quality Day is celebrated on November 9th each year. This day is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the importance of quality in all aspects of life, including business, industry, and everyday activities. It serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the role of quality management in ensuring products and services meet high standards and customer expectations.

Organizations and individuals around the world use this day to highlight the significance of quality management practices, share best practices, and engage in discussions about quality improvement. Quality professionals, quality assurance teams, and organizations often take this occasion to host events, workshops, seminars, and conferences to educate others about the importance of quality in their work and daily lives.

The theme and specific activities for World Quality Day may vary from year to year, but the overarching goal is to emphasize the value of quality and how it contributes to overall well-being and success.

 

World quality day theme, Quality: realising your competitive potential

The theme for World Quality Day, “Quality: Realizing Your Competitive Potential,” underscores the critical role that quality plays in helping organizations and individuals achieve and maintain a competitive edge. Quality management is not just about meeting minimum standards or ensuring compliance; it’s about striving for excellence, continuous improvement, and innovation to stand out in a competitive market.

This theme encourages organizations to recognize that investing in quality can lead to various benefits, such as increased customer satisfaction, improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced reputation. By realizing the competitive potential of quality, businesses can position themselves as leaders in their industries and create a sustainable advantage.

“Realizing your competitive potential” is a concept that emphasizes the importance of identifying and leveraging your strengths and capabilities to gain a competitive advantage in your personal or professional life.

Here are some key points to consider when striving for competitive potential:

Self-awareness: Start by assessing your strengths, weaknesses, skills, and interests. Understanding yourself is crucial for identifying areas where you can excel and compete effectively.

Goal setting: Set clear and achievable goals that align with your strengths and interests. These goals should challenge you and motivate you to continuously improve.

Continuous learning: Invest in your personal and professional development. Stay updated with the latest industry trends, acquire new skills, and expand your knowledge base.

Networking: Build a strong network of contacts and relationships within your industry or field. Networking can open up opportunities, provide valuable insights, and help you learn from others who have realized their competitive potential.

Adaptability: Be open to change and willing to adapt to evolving circumstances. The ability to adjust to new challenges and opportunities is a key aspect of competitiveness.

Innovation: Seek out innovative solutions and approaches to problems. Innovation can set you apart from the competition and lead to breakthroughs in your field.

Resilience: Stay persistent and resilient in the face of setbacks and obstacles. It’s common to encounter challenges on the path to realizing your potential, but your ability to bounce back and keep moving forward is crucial.

Time management: Efficiently allocate your time and resources to tasks and activities that contribute to your competitive advantage. Avoid distractions and focus on your priorities.

Personal branding: Develop a strong personal brand that reflects your strengths and values. A well-defined personal brand can help you stand out and attract opportunities.

Seek feedback: Solicit feedback from mentors, peers, and colleagues. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your competitive strategy.

Measure and track progress: Regularly assess your progress toward your goals and adjust your strategies as needed. Data-driven insights can help you make informed decisions.

Persistence and determination: Realizing your competitive potential often requires time and effort. Stay committed to your goals and perseveres through challenges.

Remember that realizing your competitive potential is a continuous journey. It’s about maximizing your abilities and leveraging them to achieve success in your chosen field or pursuit. Keep learning, growing, and adapting to stay competitive in a constantly changing world.

THE BOTTLENECK AND MY THEORY of CORK ON THE BOTTLE

In general, the bottleneck in a bottle is the narrow neck at the top of the bottle that is used to control the flow of liquid coming out of the bottle. The cork on the bottle is a stopper that is inserted into the mouth of bottle to seal the bottle and prevent the contents from spilling out.

Whereas the term “BOTTLENECK” use in context of any process improvement, then it can be understood as,

The bottleneck in any process is a point of constriction, or a step in a process that limits the flow of the entire process. It is the slowest part of the process and is usually the most critical step that determines the overall speed and efficiency of the process. Bottlenecks can occur in any area of a business, and can be caused by a variety of factors such as lack of resources, inefficient processes, or inadequate infrastructure.

In other words, the term “BOTTLENECK” in a process refers to a point where the flow of production or service is impeded, causing delays and inefficiencies. It is often the slowest or weakest part of a process that limits the overall throughput or capacity of the system. Identifying and addressing bottleneck is critical for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of a process.

BOTTLENECK

To improve a process, it’s important to identify the bottleneck and focus on eliminating or reducing it. Here are some strategies for improving a process by addressing bottlenecks:

Increase capacity at the bottleneck: One approach is to increase the capacity of the bottleneck itself. This might involve adding more resources, such as machines or staff, to speed up production at that point in the process.

Eliminate non-value-added activities: Another strategy is to eliminate any non-value-added activities that are causing delays at the bottleneck. This might involve reorganizing the process flow or removing unnecessary steps.

Implement process improvements: Process improvements, such as automation or better equipment, can also help to reduce bottlenecks and increase efficiency.

Improve communication and coordination: In some cases, bottlenecks may be caused by poor communication or coordination between different parts of the process. Improving communication and collaboration can help to identify and address these issues.

Analyze data and metrics: Collecting and analyzing data on the process can help to identify where bottlenecks are occurring and measure the impact of process improvements.

Whereas, author have a different thought process in mind that is, “THEORY OF CORK ON THE BOTTLE”

Improving a process involves identifying the known current inefficiencies or an area of weakness is nothing but the CORK on the bottle. This action enhances the effectiveness, efficiency, and overall quality of process.

In the journey of improvement of any Process, Product and Services one can apply this “THEORY OF CORK ON THE BOTTLE”.

Author believe, sometimes there is a situation like, CORK on the bottle which hinders the improvement in the process. The CORK (known current inefficiencies) lock inside the non-value added activities which does not come out of the bottle though capacity of the bottleneck itself sufficient and so process could not get improved as required and as planned.

The CORK on the bottle is of two types, one is a loose CORK and other is tight CORK on the mouth of the bottle. Both lock inside the non-value added activities as stated above which actually come across the improvement of any process.

In case of loose CORK, by shaking the bottle that is by just discussing on the problem the CORK came out by itself, whereas in case of tight CORK some more thought process is required to remove and this thought process is nothing but the  implementation of basic brainstorming.

DE-CORK THE BOTTLE

To act on the process of removing the CORK that is De-cork the bottle, following are the recommended steps,

Identify the CORK: Begin by clearly identifying the CORK which is nothing but the thing one want to remove. In such case check inputs, outputs, and the steps involved in completing the process.

Analyze the CORK: Analyze the CORK by identifying its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Use data, feedback, and other relevant information to analyze the CORK.

After above two step, follow the below steps to improve the process.

Set goals: Set clear and specific goals in advance for process improvement which is required to implement after De-CORK.  Also look for what is required to achieve, how it will measure progress, and what resources you will need to achieve your goals.

Develop a plan: Develop a plan to achieve the set goals. Identify the actions, resources, and timelines required to achieve the desired outcomes. Assign roles and responsibilities to individuals or teams involved in the process.

Implement the plan: Implement the plan, making sure to communicate the changes to everyone affected by the process. Provide training and support to ensure that everyone is aware of the changes and knows how to implement them.

Monitor progress: Monitor progress regularly and adjust the plan as needed after De-corked.. Use data to evaluate the effectiveness of the changes and make further improvements as required.

Celebrate success: Celebrate success when goals are achieved. Recognize the individuals or teams involved in the process improvement project and share the lessons learned with others in the organization.

Besides this, there is another CORK on the bottle that is People. This has to be well identified and analyze.

Some time or mostly people who do not accept the change are the biggest CORK on the mouth of the bottle (known current inefficiencies), which hinders the process of improvement and not allows other to act positively towards the improvement. This is also to be taken in consideration during improvement of any process. 

Following steps in general can be taken to keep the CORK in the form of People,

1. Identified and analyze the people which act as a CORK.
2. Conducting awareness  training for the people
3. Enhancing the knowledge and skill about process and operation.
4. Act on good communicating skill of people.
5. Counselling of people

By following the above guideline/steps and accordingly taking action to remove the BOTTLENECK and CORK on the bottle, one can improve any process and achieve better outcomes, and higher quality results.

In conclusion, improving a process requires a systematic approach that not only involves identifying the BOTTLENECK but also it is important to identify CORK on the bottle (known current inefficiencies). Accordingly analyzing the root causes, and implementing the effective solutions to the problem.

So, by focusing on “THEORY OF CORK ON THE BOTTLE”, organizations can achieve a greater efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

CYBER SECURITY – Changes in IATF16949:2016, applicable Sanctioned Interpretations are SI 18, SI 21 and SI 22

Cyber-attack is a threat on the information system and on the data available. Whereas Cyber security is play an important role in safeguarding all type of information system and data.

As cyber security has to be look form Implementation of cyber protection of system, risk analysis of cyber-attack and training & awareness on information system, attempt of cyber-attack and potential equipment failure.

The above important points are taken care while changes are made through revision and the applicable Sanctioned Interpretations are SI 18, SI 21 and SI 22 and shown here in BOLD FONTS.

1. SANCTIONED INTERPRETATIONS, SI 18

The change made through the addition of sr no c in clause Clause 7.1.3.1 Plant, facility, and equipment planning considers the importance of utilization of information system, equipment and computerized control in manufacturing process along with support function and office areas in the organization which would at risk of cyber-attack.

This addition of sr no c is energise, motivate put leadership effort to implement the necessary cyber protections which ensures continued operation and production to meet customer requirements

Clause 7.1.3.1 Plant, facility, and equipment planning

The organization shall use a multidisciplinary approach including risk identification and risk mitigation methods for developing and improving plant, facility, and equipment plans. In designing plant layouts, the organization shall:

a) optimize material flow, material handling, and value-added use of floor space including control of nonconforming product; and

b) facilitate synchronous material flow, as applicable; and

c) implement cyber protection of equipment and systems supporting 

manufacturing.

• SANCTIONED INTERPRETATIONS, SI 21

The cyber-attack on the organization’s information system, computerized control and equipment installed in manufacturing are always at risk of data damage and stoppage, so sub clause b is added and it is expected to execute the risk analysis of cyber-attack threats to information technology systems.   

Clause 6.1.2.1 Risk Analysis

The organization shall include in its risk analysis, at a minimum,:

1. a) lessons learned from product recalls, product audits, field returns and repairs, complaints, scrap, and rework,
2. b) cyber-attack threats to information technology systems.

The organization shall retain documented information as evidence of the results of risk analysis.

• SANCTIONED INTERPRETATIONS, SI 22

As we see that cyber-attack is a risk on the organization so it is important to educate the employee in the organization about the cyber security and cyber-attack through training and development and so this clause Clause 7.2.1 Competence – supplemental has be widened with emphasis on prevention and employee responsibility about cyber-attack.

Clause 7.2.1 Competence – supplemental

The organization shall establish and maintain a documented process(es) for identifying training needs including awareness (see Section 7.3.1) and achieving competence of all personnel performing activities affecting conformity to product and process requirements. Personnel performing specific assigned tasks shall be qualified, as required, with particular attention to the satisfaction of customer requirements.

To reduce or eliminate risks to the organization, the training and awareness shall also include information about prevention relevant for the organization’s working environments and employees’ responsibilities, such as recognizing the symptoms of pending equipment failure and/or attempted cyber-attacks.

COP 27 – EXPECTED BETTER FOR SUSTAINABLE MOTHER EARTH

In 1992, countries joined an international treaty, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, as a framework for international cooperation to combat climate change by limiting average global temperature increases and the resulting climate change, and coping with impacts that were, by then, inevitable.

By 1995, countries launched negotiations to strengthen the global response to climate change, and, two years later, adopted the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto Protocol legally binds developed country Parties to emission reduction targets. The Protocol’s first commitment period started in 2008 and ended in 2012. The second commitment period began on 1 January 2013 and will end in 2020.

There are now 197 Parties to the Convention and 192 Parties to the Kyoto Protocol.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) established on 21 March 1994. As on today total 198 countries gave their consent for the Convention, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. These 198 countries from the all over the universe are called Parties to the Convention.

The primary purpose, aim and objective of the UNFCCC are preventing the “dangerous” human interference such as greenhouse gas emissions and to protect the earth from the threat of climate change.

Conference of Parties (COP)

The Conference of Parties (COP) is the apex decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). COP members have been meeting every year since the year 1995.

The first conference (COP1) was held in 1995 in Berlin

COP27

This year twenty-seventh conference (COP27) is being held at Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt 06 Nov 2022 – 18 Nov 2022.

THE LOGO of COP 27

The logo of COP 27 comprises of the Sun, the Sun of Aten, the Horizon and the Globe. The meaning of each terms is as below,

The Sun:

The sun, is one of the most significant items Africa is known of, it’s believed to some people that its rising and setting is considered a metaphor to the cycle of life, from birth to death to re-birth. The light the sun brings together with its warmth are essential for life on Earth.

The Sun of Aten:

It is Aten represented in the sun with its rays that ends with human hands. The hands symbolize giving life and prosperity to the people and all the welfare that we are blessed with. Also the it represents the useful sun rays that earth can benefit from.

The Horizon:

The horizon represents the border line between the useful and harmless rays of the sun, what we must receive from the sun that can benefit of Earth and people, and what we must avoid.

The Globe:

The globe incorporated in the logo represents how we should contain earth and keep it preserved, balanced and safe. It also represents Africa, the continent hosting COP27 in 2022.

LANDMARK AGREEMENT

In the COP 21 which was held in Paris from 30 November to 12 December 2015, 196 parties adopted the “Paris Agreement,” a landmark agreement and a commitment to keep global warming below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and preferably limit warming to 1.5°C and is entered into force 4 November 2016.

To achieve this long-term temperature goal, countries aim to reach global peaking of greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible to achieve a climate neutral world by mid-century.

EXPECTATION

Not only the temperature that is keep global warming below 2 dec centi but there shall be focus on the water management, reducing the use of fossil fuel and carbon offset scheme implementation, focus mainly on carbon. All this has to be again and again required to push from each local event to contribute at global level in reducing the carbon and water foot print.

WHAT IS AUDIT, AUDITOR AND MANAGING AN AUDIT ?

During implementation of ISO, QMS, EnMS, EMS and other management systems the terms we encounter most are Audit, Internal Audit, External Audit and Internal/External Auditors. With these terms we can add more as product audit, process audit etc.

This article explains all these terms which are useful in day to day life after implementation of the system.

1. Definition of audit as per ISO 19011:2018

“Systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining objective evidence and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled”.

2. Definition of Auditor

Person who conducts audit.

3. Definition of Auditee

A person(s) of the organization or organization itself, who is going through the process of audit by auditor or face the audit.

4. Types of Audit: Process audit, Product Audit, System Audit

• Process audit:

Process audits are conducted to evaluate the process, where there is some kind of input and result in output against the stipulated procedure, standards and instruction. Also it is important to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the process against planned.

• Product Audit:

The product audit is carried out for the product or the services. The final product which is ready for dispatch to customer is audited against specification, customer requirement, Technical Delivery Condition to evaluate product confirms the stipulated requirements.

• System Audit:

System audit means audit conducted for management systems, for evaluation of objected evidence through use of documented procedure, data, and objective of management.

The examples are Management system audit, Energy Management system, Environmental Management system.

5. Types of Audit: First Party Audit, Second Party Audit, Third Party Audit

• First Party Audit:

The audit is performed by the organization itself to check the effectiveness of the management system .These audits are conducted independently by employees of the organization.

• Second Party Audit:

The second party audits are conducted by the customer at supplier premises .This audit is conducted against the purchase order terms, contract of supply etc.

• Third Party Audit:

The third party audit is conducted by the independent body. Such bodies are independent of supplier and customer relations. The third party audit conducts for inspection of material certification.

6. Follow-up audit:

During Process audit, Product Audit, System Audit, there are findings and nonconformity observed by the auditor and the same could not be closed on the spot after completion of audit, where correction and corrective action are required. So, to verify the correction and corrective action on the finding and nonconformity follow-up audit are conducted.

7. Managing an audit:

For managing an audit, there is standard, ISO 19011:2018 – Guideline for Auditing Management System to follow.

The process flow of audit is based on Plan – Do – Check– Act (PDCA) Cycle.

The clause wise details as below:

1. Establishing audit programme objective(5.2)
2. Determining and evaluating audit programme risk and opportunity(5.3)
3. Establishing audit programme(5.4)
4. Implementing audit programme(5.5)
5. Monitoring audit programme(5.6)
6. Reviewing and improving audit programme(5.7)
7. Initiating audit(6.2)
8. Preparing audit activity (6.3)
9. Conducting audit activities(6.4)
10. Preparing and distributing audit report(6.5)
11. Completing audit(6.6)
12. Conducting audit follow-up (6.7)

It is to be noted that completing audit (6.6) says

“The audit is completed, when all planned audit activities have been carried out, or as otherwise agreed with the audit client”.

Also, lessons learnt from audit can identify risk and opportunity for the audit program and for the auditee and same shall be noted for improvement of quality management system.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REVISION AND EDITION OF DOCUMENT

Most of the time, when we are dealing with Quality Management System, Energy Management System, Environmental Management System, Laboratory Management System documents, there is a confusion at the time when there are changes in the document are required and stuck at a point whether document is revised or /and edited and to be given new revision no or edition no.

So what is revision and edition of document?

REVISION

Revision of document is carried out when there is change in the meaning or we want to clarify on the point in detail as compare to what we previously mentioned.

EDITION

Change in edition of document is carried out when there is no change in details mentioned in the procedure, but required to correct the mistake(s) happened during writing of the procedure.

These mistakes can be categorized as grammatical mistake and / or spelling mistake.

For understanding when there is revision and when there is edition of document, let’s take an example of non-conformity;

Non-conformity has been given by the auditor after auditing one of the department / section of the organization when auditing the quality management or other management system.

Non-conformity:

Temperature of the process not documented in proper identified format.

Non-conformity closing:

In this case to close non-conformity, first proper format has to develop with unique identification number for documenting the process temperature and revise the procedure by adding the reference of newly develop format and add details about use and application of developed format.

Here, we are clarifying in procedure about reference of developed format and its use, so procedure will be revised with next revision no and there will not be any change in edition no.

Case of editing:

Whereas, during clarifying the details about use of developed format and  its application, it is found that there are some spelling mistake and that required the correction and same is corrected, then procedure will be updated with next edition no.

If both above cases are implemented at same time, then procedure will be updated with next edition no and revision no both.