Quality Systems. A Thermodynamics-Related Interpretive Model

Stefano A Lollai

doi:10.3390/e19080418

Abstract

In the present paper, a Quality Systems Theory is presented. Certifiable Quality Systems are treated and interpreted in accordance with a Thermodynamics-based approach. Analysis is also conducted on the relationship between Quality Management Systems (QMSs) and systems theories. A measure of entropy is proposed for QMSs, including a virtual document entropy and an entropy linked to processes and organisation. QMSs are also interpreted in light of Cybernetics, and interrelations between Information Theory and quality are also highlighted. A measure for the information content of quality documents is proposed. Such parameters can be used as adequacy indices for QMSs. From the discussed approach, suggestions for organising QMSs are also derived. Further interpretive thermodynamic-based criteria for QMSs are also proposed. The work represents the first attempt to treat quality organisational systems according to a thermodynamics-related approach. At this stage, no data are available to compare statements in the paper.

Highlights

The author thinks that this aspect has not received adequate consideration, and a response to the key question posed by Rasberry as to “whether quality systems are so abstract that they escape thermodynamic principles” is required [4]
The aim of the present paper is to provide quality systems with a broad, thermodynamics-related theoretical background
A Thermodynamicsrelated interpretation of quality is given under the theoretical framework of System Theories and

Summary

Introduction

Quality is the “degree to which a set of inherent characteristics of an object fulfils requirements”and a Quality Management System (QMS) is an organisation that operates according to quality.These definitions are from the ISO 9000 standard, the cornerstone in the field of quality [1].according to this standard, a quality system is defined as a “set of interrelated or interacting elements”, which presupposes an organisation, namely “people which has its own functions with responsibilities, authorities and relationships to achieve its objectives”, in order to perform processes, the mutually interacting of activities which, managed as a whole, allow the organisation to reach its intended results with effectiveness and efficiency [1].Quality, as expressed by standards, supposes a well-ordered structure, and the maintenance of order presupposes the expenditure of work, as imposed by Thermodynamics. A Quality Management System (QMS) is an organisation that operates according to quality. These definitions are from the ISO 9000 standard, the cornerstone in the field of quality [1]. According to this standard, a quality system is defined as a “set of interrelated or interacting elements”, which presupposes an organisation, namely “people which has its own functions with responsibilities, authorities and relationships to achieve its objectives”, in order to perform processes, the mutually interacting of activities which, managed as a whole, allow the organisation to reach its intended results with effectiveness and efficiency [1]. The author thinks that this aspect has not received adequate consideration, and a response to the key question posed by Rasberry as to “whether quality systems are so abstract that they escape thermodynamic principles” is required [4]

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Discussion

Conclusion