Quality Glossary Definition: Quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC)

Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) are two terms that are often used interchangeably. Although similar, there are distinct differences between the two concepts. This page will explain the differences between quality control and quality management, and provide definitions and examples of each. 

• Differences between QA and QC
• Industry perspectives on QA and QC
• History of QA and QC
• QA and QC resources

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN QA AND QC

Quality assurance and quality control are two aspects of quality management. While some quality assurance and quality control activities are interrelated, the two are defined differently. Typically, QA activities and responsibilities cover virtually all of the quality system in one fashion or another, while QC is a subset of the QA activities. Also, elements in the quality system might not be specifically covered by QA/QC activities and responsibilities but may involve QA and QC