While communication is not the sole responsibility of the quality department, it certainly plays a large role in the management and execution of an effective quality system. Even for the most organized and well documented quality system, successful communication is a must. Although I have discussed effective communication in the past, I want to focus on written communication. In the day and age of texting and social media, it seems as though with all of means for personal interface that we would become better at communication. However, I have noticed when it comes to thorough and precise written communication, it now seems to be a coveted skill rather than an inherent capability.
On September 18th, Rebekah Byrne, Scientist I and David Exline, Senior V.P. at Gateway Analytical hosted a webinar designed for professionals (e.g. Quality Control, Industrial Engineers) involved in the production and development of various materials, ranging from adhesives and polymers to plastics and glass. During this webinar, our presenters provided an overview of RCI and the type of data that can be generated using this technique. They discussed how this technique is currently being utilized in areas such as pharmaceuticals and provided details on how RCI can be beneficial for analyzing other types of materials, such as adhesives, polymers and coatings. They also discussed how analysis of materials using RCI can improve product development and failure analysis.
When everything within your quality system seems to be running like a well-oiled machine, it is easy to get stuck in a rut and perceive a lack of corrective actions or deviations as a signal that nothing needs to change. However, just because something works well does not negate the fact that it can be improved.
It may seem a little nitpicky to point out the difference between conformance and compliance, validation and qualification, or even registered and certified. After all, how often is someone going to ask you to correctly define compliance and use it properly in a sentence? Unless your employer exercises their right to hand out pop quizzes, probably never.
Event Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Time: 11 a.m. EST
Duration: 60 minutes
Presenters: David Exline, Senior Vice President & Rebekah Wagurak, Scientist I at Gateway Analytical
Host: Shawn Wilhelm, Marketing Coordinator at Gateway Analytical
Every time I do training, I try to ask myself, “What is it that I am hoping to get out of this”? Typically in answering that question I also answer, “What do I hope the trainees get out of this?” Although many types of training are required on an annual basis, there is no reason for those doing the training to fall into a routine where they deliver the same set of PowerPoint slides year after year. Granted, there are important messages that must be delivered each and every time a particular topic is presented; however, that does not excuse the trainer from finding a dynamic, inventive and useful approach to deliver that message.
During the course of my 25 year career in QA/QC, I have hosted and/or participated in an estimated 70 audits. This includes both certification and customer audits. Over the course of those years, my approach has changed quite a bit. Early on, I would approach audits with angst and trepidation. In other words, I would dread them. But over the years, experience (and yes age) has changed that view, as I now see audits as tools for improvement. I’ve also come to realize that auditors are people too and not to be feared—especially since I have conducted many audits myself.
PITTSBURGH, PA – Gateway Analytical announced today that the company received its 17025:2005 accreditation from the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). This accreditation is another illustration of Gateway’s commitment to quality and technical expertise, and focuses on material science and industrial forensics laboratory testing.
