How does Quality Control differ from Quality Assurance?

Quality Assurance is primarily concerned with ensuring that processes are in place to maintain the quality of products or services through systematic monitoring and evaluation. It encompasses the planned and systematic activities implemented in a quality system to fulfill quality requirements. This includes comprehensive documentation, the establishment of standards, and continuous performance monitoring to ensure that quality objectives are met consistently across operations.

In contrast, Quality Control specifically focuses on the detection of defects and issues in the final output. It involves measuring performance, inspection, and testing of products or services to identify any deviations from predefined standards. Quality Control aims to ensure that the end products meet certain criteria but does not focus on the processes that lead to those products.

The distinction between Quality Assurance and Quality Control is important in various fields, including manufacturing, software development, and digital forensics, as it ensures both proactive and reactive measures are in place to maintain high standards.