When I started doing QC inspections, my first client's quality manager was interchangeably mentioning "level II" and "normal level". And same thing with "level I" and "reduced level". I purchased the relevant standard and I read it … [Read more...]
Sampling plan calculations for quality inspections [infographic]
![Sampling plan calculations for quality inspections [infographic]](https://qualityinspection.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/UPshutterstock56722456.jpg)
Most inspections only involve 1 or 2 references, and can be conducted in one man-day (i.e. one inspector on site for one day). However, in certain situations, deciding on a sampling plan is very difficult--see my previous article about … [Read more...]
ISO 9000 factory audits for your China suppliers
Factory audits in China and other Asian countries are often (loosely) based on a checklist inspired by the ISO 9000 series. That means the main part of these audits consists in looking for holes in the factory's quality system. Why are … [Read more...]
How does a random quality inspection work? [infographic]
![How does a random quality inspection work? [infographic]](https://qualityinspection.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/shutterstock71358019.jpg)
On the last trade show I attended, I noticed that I explained over and over again how we perform random quality inspections. There must be a better way to pass this message. A graphic designer helped me render it visually, and here is … [Read more...]
4 Proven Ways To Enforce A Quality Standard In China
How can importers establish a quality standard, and then enforce it? Here are 4 proven ways to enforce a quality standard in China and other Asian countries, and also improve how you handle your suppliers, too. … [Read more...]
Inspection of fabric rolls in China
China is the largest exporter of apparel. There are several reasons for this: the low cost of labor, the know how in producing low-to-medium-end products, the great business environment, but also the low cost of fabrics. And, not … [Read more...]
Inspection during production: a necessity?
The inspection during production (or "DUPRO") is the second most frequent type of QC inspection, after the final random inspection (see the list of the major types of quality inspection services). … [Read more...]
Final Random Inspection: A Guide For Importers
The final random inspection is by far the most popular QC service in China (see my last post, where I listed the other major types of quality inspection services). It is suitable for nearly all types of consumer goods purchased in Asia. … [Read more...]
The 4 types of quality inspection services
Four types of quality inspection services are usually distinguished. Each one corresponds to a particular step in the production process. They are all part of the toolbox of every importer when it comes to buying in China and other low-cost … [Read more...]
Statistical quality control tool: get a valid sampling plan
What is the difference between statistical quality control and unprofessional inspections? A professional inspector will follow a valid sampling plan. A sampling plan should take care of three fundamental concerns: There should be a … [Read more...]