Support: FAQs

We've listed some frequently asked questions about QMSIT software below. If you need more information, we'd be pleased to schedule a meeting with you on a no-cost, no-obligation basis to gain a better understanding of your unique needs.

What are the advantages of QMSIT’s “Server-Based PC App” design?
There are numerous benefits: First, the client retains complete control over their own data at all times. Second, this approach eliminates firewall issues, allowing for use in secure/sensitive environments. Third, response times are rapid – users are never frustrated by irritating delays. Finally, this platform allows for continuous use of the software regardless of whether an Internet connection is present. By contrast, web-based solutions fail to offer any of these benefits.
How long does it typically take to install QMSIT software?
QMSIT software is easy to install. An IT technician can typically install the software on a QMSIT-ready server in less than an hour. (See Technical Specifications: Software Requirements for details.) Installation on a PC requires only a few minutes.
How long does it typically take to set-up a customized application on QMSIT?
Simple applications can be up and running in as little as one week. The amount of time required varies based on several factors, including: the number of requirements (contract provisions, regulations, etc.); the number and complexity of inspections to be scheduled in your annual surveillance plan; and the amount of additional instructions for inspectors. The initial application set-up is typically the lengthiest and most detailed (because enterprise-wide data must be defined first) while each subsequent set-up is comparatively faster.
What staffing will be needed for the initial QMSIT set-up and subsequent management/use?
Who should be on the team?
At a minimum, QMSIT requires a minor time commitment for two functions - system administration and scheduling/conducting inspections - plus a basic level of management oversight.
In addition to your online training, do you also offer on-site training?
Yes! ThinkQ, the makers of QMSIT, offers a team of highly experienced QMSIT consultants who can provide on-site training to your team at locations worldwide. See our Cost Schedule for details.
How complex can my application(s) be?
QMSIT is very scalable. You can use QMSIT to create a complex surveillance plan that involves numerous major applications and hundreds of inspectors of multiple service operations at an open-ended number of work sites.
What are the Technical Requirements for running QMSIT?
Click here to see the Technical Requirements.
We’re not sure if QMSIT is the right fit for us. Can you advise us?
Yes! We’ll be pleased to schedule a meeting with you on a no-cost, no-obligation basis to gain a better understanding of your unique needs. Click here to contact us.
Can QMSIT be used in a manufacturing setting?
QMSIT is not designed for inspecting the quality of machines, automated assembly lines, or products produced. However QMSIT can help you to optimize the efficiency and quality of the processes and procedures you assign to factory personnel.
How do Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) differ?
The use of the terms “quality control” and “quality assurance” is not universal. In particular, the terms are applied differently in the public and private sectors.

For United States federal government suppliers, quality control (QC) includes the processes and procedures that a supplier uses to ensure that any supplies or services tendered meet contract requirements. In contrast, quality assurance (QA) refers to the methods that the government uses to determine whether the supplier has fulfilled contract obligations pertaining to quality and quantity. QA procedures are used to validate the supplier’s QC approach.

In the private sector, however, QA is defined as a procedure or set of procedures intended to ensure that a product or service under development (before work is complete, as opposed to afterwards) meets specified requirements. QC, on the other hand, is a procedure or set of procedures intended to ensure that finished products or performed services adhere to a defined set of quality criteria or meet the requirements of the customer.

Unless otherwise indicated, ThinkQ uses the terms and definitions for QC and QA as defined by the US federal government.
What is a Quality Management System? (QMS)
A Quality Management System (QMS) is the defined set of internal processes and procedures that enables an organization to fulfill its purpose and mission. The QMS provides the organization with a comprehensive, executable approach to generating its products and services. The process of defining a QMS helps an organization to identify, measure, control, and improve its business processes. Instituting a QMS can significantly enhance an organization’s performance, potentially improving its market standing and competitiveness.
What is “quality” and who is responsible?
The term “quality” may have different meanings to individuals in differing circumstances. Perhaps the most common expectation of a “quality” product or service is that it meets certain pre-defined or generally well-accepted criteria.

The International Standards Organization (ISO) defines quality as “the degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills requirements,” where “requirement” means need or expectation. The influential management consultant Joseph M. Juran defined quality as “fitness for use,” with fitness being defined by the customer.

As defined by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the term quality can mean “a product or service free of deficiencies.”

At the most basic level, the seller of any product or service has a moral (and usually contractual) obligation to meet or exceed the customer’s requirements for the intended or implied use of the product or service. As the management consultant Peter Drucker defined it, “Quality in a product or service is not what the supplier puts in. It is what the customer gets out and is willing to pay for.”

Ultimately, the responsibility for satisfying a customer’s quality expectations rests with the supplier.