gæðateymi

Gæðateymi, or quality team, is a cross-functional group within an organization that oversees quality across products, services, and processes. Its overarching goal is to ensure that outputs meet customer requirements and applicable regulations, and to prevent defects through proactive quality management.

Typical members include a quality lead or manager, quality assurance specialists, testers or inspectors, process owners, and representatives from development, production, supply chain, and customer support. The exact composition varies by industry, project scope, and regulatory context.

Key activities include defining quality policies and plans, establishing and monitoring quality metrics (KPIs), conducting audits, performing quality assurance (preventive) and quality control (detective) activities, and leading problem‑solving efforts. The team may use frameworks such as ISO 9001, Lean, Six Sigma, or other industry standards, and conducts risk assessments and root‑cause analyses.

Governance and workflow typically involve regular meetings, reporting to management or a steering committee, and collaboration with other functions. Tools used include dashboards, data analytics, control charts, and defect-tracking systems, all supporting a Plan‑Do‑Check‑Act improvement cycle.

Outcomes of an effective gæðateymi include higher product and service quality, increased reliability and customer satisfaction, reduced waste and recalls, and improved regulatory compliance and organizational learning. The term is widely used in Icelandic organizations and can apply to software, manufacturing, and service contexts.