Laatuhallintajärjestelmä

Laatuhallintajärjestelmä, often translated as Quality Management System (QMS), is a formalized system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for achieving quality policies and objectives. It helps an organization to coordinate and direct its activities to meet customer and regulatory requirements and improve its effectiveness and efficiency on a continuous basis.

A QMS can be implemented in various industries and organizational sizes. Its primary goal is to ensure that products and services consistently meet defined standards and customer expectations. Key components of a QMS typically include a quality policy, quality manual, documented procedures, work instructions, and records. It also involves mechanisms for internal audits, management reviews, corrective and preventive actions, and continuous improvement.

The implementation of a QMS often leads to improved operational efficiency, reduced waste, better decision-making, and increased customer satisfaction. It provides a framework for managing quality-related risks and opportunities. Many organizations adopt internationally recognized QMS standards, such as ISO 9001, to demonstrate their commitment to quality and to gain a competitive advantage. The development and maintenance of a QMS is an ongoing process that requires commitment from all levels of an organization.