Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Verfahren / Español: Procedimiento / Português: Procedimento / Français: Procédure / Italiano: Procedura /

Français: Procédure
Procedure may refer to instructions or recipes or a set of commands that show how to prepare or make something.

In quality management, a procedure is a documented set of steps that outlines how a particular task or process should be performed. Procedures are an essential component of quality management systems, as they help to ensure consistency, efficiency, and effectiveness in operations. Here are some examples of procedures in different industries:

Manufacturing: In manufacturing, procedures may be used for tasks such as product assembly, quality control, or equipment maintenance. For example, a procedure for product assembly may include steps for inspecting parts, assembling components, and conducting final quality checks.

Healthcare: In healthcare, procedures may be used for tasks such as patient care, medication administration, or infection control. For example, a procedure for medication administration may include steps for verifying patient identity, checking medication labels, and documenting administration.

Construction: In construction, procedures may be used for tasks such as project management, safety management, or quality assurance. For example, a procedure for quality assurance may include steps for conducting inspections, documenting defects, and implementing corrective actions.

There are also other similar concepts to procedures that are often used in quality management. These include:

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Standard Operating Procedures are a type of procedure that is widely used in many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. SOPs are detailed written instructions that outline how to perform a particular task or process, and are designed to ensure consistency and efficiency in operations.

Work Instructions: Work instructions are similar to procedures and SOPs, but are typically more detailed and specific. Work instructions may include diagrams, photographs, or other visual aids to help clarify the steps involved in a particular task or process.

Policies: Policies are high-level statements that establish guidelines or principles for decision-making and behavior within an organization. Policies may be used to establish quality management goals or to outline requirements for compliance with regulations or standards.

Guidelines: Guidelines are similar to policies, but are typically less prescriptive and more flexible. Guidelines may provide recommendations or best practices for achieving quality management objectives, but may not be as specific as procedures or SOPs.

In summary, procedures are a critical component of quality management systems, as they help to ensure consistency, efficiency, and effectiveness in operations. Procedures may be used in a wide range of industries for tasks such as product assembly, patient care, or project management. Other similar concepts to procedures include Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, policies, and guidelines, each with their own level of detail and specificity. By developing and implementing effective procedures and related processes, organizations can improve their overall performance and achieve their quality management goals.