The Mark of Quality

Abstract

The date for the completion of the Single Market is partly symbolic. Changes and harmonisation leading to market opportunities have been in progress for some time and will continue long after 1992. These opportunites are not being ignored by Britain’s European partners, and even a company which has no intention of selling outside its own country must protect its market from those who enjoy new freedom to enter it. Since the Single Market will place firms in a more competitive environment, prices will necessarily be more competitive and, increasingly, the customer, both corporate and individual, will look more closely at other factors which improve competitiveness Quality of product and quality of service will be foremost amongst these and this is why quality has become a major issue in British industry. Already, more than 12,000 firms are stealing the limelight and lucrative contracts, by winning certificates of quality which show they are fit and efficient. These firms are able to display symbols which indicate that their management systems meet with the widely recognised and respected standard, having been assessed against the British Standard 5750/EN 29000. The standard is recognised across all European borders. There is no limit to the activity or size of company which can be assesed to BS 5750 — EN 29000/ISO 9000. From one-man band to multi-national, this ubiquitous standard marks the path for the quality system. Just as important as product specification is delivery on time, maintenance of performance, traceability of faults and quality of service. The message is deliver value for money and profits will follow, especially after 1992.