Discussion

Introduction

Discussion forums allow students the opportunity to analyze and discuss project management topics with classmates and the instructor.  They are an opportunity for sharing insights and experiences within project management and are relative to the readings, other weekly course material, and the Unit Learning Outcomes.  Please review the Learning Outcomes and the Directions prior to posting your response to the discussion prompt below.

Unit Learning Outcomes

Explain how a process flow chart aids in performing quality control on projects.

Devise action to prevent the same problem from occurring again later in the project.

Examine the pros and cons of in-house to third-party quality audit on a project.

Explain how one can improve the performance of subcontractors.

Discuss why Quality Control by external persons can take more time and effort.

Evaluate the importance of a thorough quality management plan.

After reviewing this week’s material, engage in an active discussion this week on the following topic:

• The user is facing a lot of problems in enhancements and minor changes carried out for a software product. Discuss how do you apply quality principles and rectify the problems.
• Please find an additional reference source and cite the source in your discussion post. Sources must be used to enhance the learning experience. By finding a referenced source, you are enhancing the learning experience by searching for another source of information on the topic. Also, please ensure you are using a source that is peer reviewed to ensure accuracy of information (select peer-reviewed journal articles in the Park Library).
• Your original post should be in the format of an executive summary (must contain verbiage and bullet points to name the key points). Use APA formatting.
• Due Dates
• Please respond to the original post by Thursday at 11:59pm, CT
• There should be two additional separate days of engagement by Sunday at 11:59 pm CT, for a total of three full days of engagement.

Student 1

When considering issues regarding software products enhancements and changes the quality department has to assess the root of the problem. Traditionally, any quality team has a process in place for this method. IT software is one of the most pertinent aspects of a functionally working system. Without properly working components, the company can see a reduction in inefficiency. "The products in the field of information technology expose the technology suppliers to a wide scientific research so as the future characteristics of the new products fulfill the requirements and the needs of the market. So, one of the most important concepts is quality" (SOURCE). 

First, we need to complete an audit of the software. This can be completed in different stages, with the end result providing a report of the software and any issues noted during the audit. In a study completed by Robert Gabriel Dragomir, he noted seven complete stages when performing an IT audit: "1. audit initiation, 2. documents analysis, 3. preparation for the specific audit at a certain place, 4. audit activities specific to the place, 5. the report of the audit results, 6. audit ending and 7. optionally, the following audit" (SOURCE). 

Once this audit is done, the quality team should be able to identify the pain points that are causing user problems.  Utilizing this report, we should be able to make appropriate corrections to improve the quality of the software for the customer. It will be important to include the user in these decisions to ensure that their software is customized to their needs. Ultimately, with proper communication, we should be able to provide a well-rounded refinement that satisfies our consumers. 

Sources: 

2) Dragomir, Robert G. (2017). The Audit of the Quality Control System within the Information Technology Field. Journal of Economic Development, Environment and People, Volume 6, Issue2. http://jedep.spiruharet.ro/RePEc/sph/rjedep/JEDEP2…

• Student 2
• A quality management framework or system varies depending on the organization. Generally, a quality management system is a set of business practices that help am organization maintain compliance and deliver quality products to the consumer. This is important, because it creates transparency between the organization and its customers and defines what quality means for an organization. There are 9 core elements of a quality management system.

1. Quality Policy and Objectives

2. Quality manual

3. Organizational structure and responsibilities

4. Data management

5. Processes

6. Customer satisfaction with product quality

7. Continuous improvement

8. Quality instruments

9. Document control and management

The core quality management element in the discussion prompt is customer satisfaction. Customer service is the support that your company offers to it's customers before and after they buy the product. If a customer is disatisfied with the product, then there needs to be a system in place for addressing those concerns. When addressing customer concerns, it's important that your organization work as a team and listen to what the customer has to say. Be transparent and honest about solving their problems. Make sure that your organization is empathetic to the customers needs and can solve their problems in a timely manner. Providing excellent customer service is the key to a brand's success. 

References

Kelderman, E. (2021, September 22).  The 9 core elements of a quality management system. Qualio. https://www.qualio.com/blog/the-9-core-elements-of…

Salesforce. (2022). What is customer service? Definition and tips. https://www.salesforce.com/products/service-cloud/…