The SPS Group's thoughts on Quality Control

Improving quality control is a continuous process for us at The SPS Group. Many projects and initiatives are currently in progress to enable us to produce the highest quality materials efficiently. Providing high quality, intuitive and intelligent retail marketing solutions to our clients is our primary goal. There is always room for improvement, so Darren, Nathan and Phil have shared their plans for future quality control progress. 


Darren Clarke - Purchasing Manager

What were our initial QC challenges?

Buying the highest quality of materials, whilst remaining competitive is a challenge for us.

What procedures have we implemented to correct this?

Every effort has been made to test materials before live jobs. We are regularly challenging suppliers to provide new materials and techniques that can improve our production process. We are testing a range of new techniques and materials currently, so watch this space!

Nathan Hearn - Operations Manager

What were our initial QC challenges?

Timelines are becoming really challenging and the turnaround time is shrinking. Ensuring that everyone follows the correct procedure can be difficult.

What procedures have we implemented to correct this?

Quality control is a work in progress. We are increasing staff in the necessary areas, increasing staff training and will be implementing stock control zones. Clear procedures and quality management evaluation will help, alongside constantly challenging each department to look at the full system for improvement, we are also looking to complete the ISO 12647 for colour management. 

Phil Chambers - Strategic Safety Systems

What were our initial QC challenges?

It was identified that our policy and procedures needed simplifying and a clear structure put in place.

What procedures have we implemented to correct this?

We have re-written the Quality Management System based on a flow-chart approach which looked at the process from enquiry to delivery. The changes can be found around the premises and department flowcharts are displayed on the relevant walls. This is important to ensure consistency and understanding throughout the business.

The flow-chart posters were a revolutionary approach and we are pleased to see many other organisations using the idea to improve their quality control procedures, with Certification Bodies promoting the flow-chart approach as best practice. We believe that as our business grows and adapts, so should our procedures. With this in mind our quality control process is constantly changing and improving

What are the industry best practices for QC?

Quality control goes much further than process, we have significantly upgraded our equipment in line with client feedback to provide new materials, techniques and concepts to the ever competitive retail market.
 

Maria Parker-Harris

Group marketing Co-ordinator

The SPS Group 

www.spsgroup.co.uk