When it comes to running a business, 
the “to-do” list seems like it is never going to end.
This is especially true when starting a company from
the ground up, expanding an existing company into a
new market, and any time there is a transition in leadership.
It is easy to lose sight of the details during these scenarios,
which is understandable. However, this sort of farsightedness
is also unfortunate, sometimes carrying the consequence of
undermining a business’ success before it is firmly established.
Quality & Compliance
One of the most critical and often overlooked elements of becoming oriented
to a new market is developing a functional understanding of the rules and
regulations that govern that industry. Often termed quality and compliance,
business owners need to understand the relationship between these two targets.
Quality is multifaceted. It is a measure of value as perceived by
present and potential customers, as well as a framework that
directs the operations of a company.
Compliance, meanwhile, refers to abiding by specific industry
standards as a means to both achieve consistency in quality
and manage liability. Industry standards and other best practice guidelines
are established by the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) and various state and federal agencies.
The most successful companies are those that do not view quality and compliance
as isolated components of their operations. Instead, they consider quality and
compliance interdependent, realizing that in order to deliver high quality goods
or services, they must develop a high quality production process that complies
with the most current guidelines. Compliance is understood as a way to ensure a
valuable experience for clients and partners while building reputability.
Keeping track of pertinent regulations can be a challenge, especially in industries
that see a high rate of amendment to laws and regulatory guidelines. It can also be
a headache—sometimes industry standards feel more like a bureaucratic hindrance
than beneficial insurance developed with an aim to protect businesses
and consumers alike. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Quality Management Software Systems
Quality management software systems (QMS) can make staying on top of quality
and compliance easy. From organizing templates and automated emails, to filing
forms and double-checking protocols, QMS software is designed to streamline
business management processes while eliminating human error.
This provides business owners with peace of mind and frees up time and
resources that can be reinvested in growth and development.
Some QMS software providers—MasterControl for example—provide an integrated
network of QMS tools, including Corrective & Preventative Action (CAPA) tracking,
document control, and audit management software systems. Switching to
comprehensive QMS software from onsite management not only makes running
a business easier, it also ensures optimal quality while maintaining complete compliance.
Author Info: Declan Peltier writes for MasterControl about
scalable quality management solutions and IT security.