Developing a Quality Manual
For many companies, developing a quality manual is a critical
component of the continuous improvement process. A
manual compiles relevant policies, procedures and
materials in a single resource for management and all
employees. A quality manual may be used to:
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Describe the continuous improvement system.
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Document policies and procedures.
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Define quality standards that will be used.
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Explain how quality requirements will be met.
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Outline the quality management process.
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Educate employees about quality requirements.
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Direct implementation of continuous improvements.
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Verify that processes meet quality requirements.
Quality manual contents should include:
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Mission statement and/or endorsed continuous improvement
policy.
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Description of continuous improvement/quality objectives.
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Process to communicate quality policy/objectives to
employees.
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Quality system audit process and timeline.
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Quality procedures.
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Audit results and corrective actions taken.
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Defined methodology for tracking key operating parameters.
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Graphs, charts or other documentation of changes in operating
parameters over time.
Quality procedures should describe who performs, manages, controls,
verifies and reviews all work that affects quality. Each procedure
should cover a logical and distinct part of the quality system and:
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State its purpose or intent.
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Clarify the scope of its application.
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Highlight controls that must be applied.
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Explain how authority has been distributed.
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List responsibilities that should be performed.
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Identify who is responsible for doing the work.
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Describe the work that should be performed.
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Specify how and when the work should be done.
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List the documents, records, materials, supplies, tools and
equipment that must be used.
MORE
Quality Manual Detailed Outline 
Continuous Improvement Overview
Continuous Improvement System Elements
Continuous Improvement Case Study
Additional Resources
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