The terms quality assurance (QA) and quality control
(QC) are frequently used interchangeably. Since quality
control is a part of quality assurance, z maintaining a clear
distinction between then is difficult but important. Quality
assurance is all planned and systematic actions necessary to
provide adequate confidence that a structure, system or
component will perform satisfactorily and conform with
project requirements. On the other hand, quality control
is a set of specific procedures involved in the qualityassurance
process. These procedures include planning,
coordinating, developing, checking, reviewing, and scheduling
the work. The quality control function is closest to the product in that various techniques and activities are used to
monitor the process and to pursue the elimination of sources
that lead to unsatisfactory quality performance. Most
design-related quality assurance and quality control activities
are covered by a design organization's standard office procedures.
Developing and monitoring the activities within the
quality assurance program in the construction phase are the
responsibility of either the designer or the construction management
firm depending on the project delivery system in use.