Managing China product quality: Reduce your outsourcing risks and cost

Product quality gets a good deal of attention on the Smart China Sourcing website, reflecting the high degree of engagement and care buyers should exercise in managing their China product quality. Michael Hetzel of Pro QC adds perspective from the inspection industry, as well as helpful tips on picking the right provider, if you decide to outsource quality management.

By Michael L. Hetzel

Much has been written about supplier quality management in China. Most of the information is fairly accurate, although not always. Quality management is a complex issue, particularly the management of distant sources, and a field that entire educational programs and careers are dedicated to. So the key issue for someone who is not a quality assurance (QA) professional becomes one of successful application of the available resources for the best possible results from your outsourcing activities.

For the purposes of this article we’re referring to custom products, not buying a stock product such as an MP3 player. Rather than discuss the details, let’s begin with the broadest issues and the options that will influence your results. Unless you plan to build a career in QA, what you really need to know is how to hire the right QA professionals to manage your quality and conformance interests.

Read more at China Product Quality.