What does QAF mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Quality assurance (QA) is a process-oriented approach that focuses on improving the quality of products and services, through the implementation of procedures that prevent defects from occurring. Quality assurance ensures that all aspects of a business meet the expectations and requirements of customers, suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders.

A Quality Assurance Framework typically includes processes such as product/service design controls, process control systems, management review systems, statistical process control (SPC), corrective/preventive action plans (CPAs), internal audits and quality system assessments. Additionally, it also includes quality manuals that document processes related to management system requirements and resource planning.

A Quality Assurance Framework is usually implemented through an established set of policies and procedures which outlines specific activities related to maintaining a certain level of quality within an organization or process. These activities may include product testing, inspections at different stages in the production cycle, preventive maintenance programs, metrology measurements/calibrations and record keeping systems. Additionally organizations should conduct training programs to ensure that employees understand how to fulfil their roles in meeting specifications according to the framework's standards.

Implementing a QAF can help improve overall product/service quality as well as streamline processes within the organization. It can increase customer satisfaction levels by providing better products/services with lower risks associated with non-compliance issues from external regulations or internal standards. Additionally implementing a framework can reduce costs incurred from waste associated with producing substandard products/services which do not meet customer expectations.