1.1 Introduction
A computer-based quality control system is an organized application of computer technology used to monitor, evaluate, and improve the quality of products by collecting, processing, and analyzing quality-related data in a systematic manner. In the context of stock products, such a system focuses on ensuring that goods stored, distributed, or made available for sale consistently meet predefined quality standards before reaching the final consumer. Quality control itself refers to the operational techniques and activities used to fulfill quality requirements, while computer-based systems enhance these activities through automation, accuracy, and real-time data handling (Montgomery, 2019). In modern manufacturing and inventory management environments, product quality has become a major determinant of customer satisfaction, organizational reputation, and competitive advantage. As production volumes increase and stock management systems become more complex, traditional manual quality control methods are increasingly inadequate (Evans & Lindsay, 2020).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitation of the study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Quality control is a critical component of production and stock management processes, aimed at ensuring that products meet predetermined standards and satisfy consumer expectations. According to Montgomery (2019), quality control involves systematic monitoring and evaluation of products, using statistical and operational techniques to detect defects and ensure consistency in output. In stock product management, maintaining product quality is particularly challenging due to the volume of goods, varying storage conditions, and multiple handling stages that may affect product integrity. Evans and Lindsay (2020) reported that organizations relying solely on manual quality control methods often experience inefficiencies, human errors, and delayed identification of defective products. They asserted that these challenges lead to increased operational costs, wastage, and diminished customer satisfaction. Similarly, Oakland (2018) stated that traditional quality control approaches are reactive in nature, focusing on identifying defects after production rather than preventing them, thereby limiting an organization's ability to maintain consistent quality in stock products.
In stock product management, the adoption of computer-based quality control has been particularly impactful. Akanbi and Olorunsola (2021) contended that managing inventory with computerized quality control systems ensures that products meet established standards before distribution, improving traceability, reducing waste, and minimizing customer complaints. The integration of such systems also allows organizations to maintain comprehensive records of product quality, facilitating regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges and the growing need for a reliable computer-based quality control system in stock product management to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and overall product quality.
1.3 Statement of Problem
The problems observed in existing computer based quality control system in stock product include:
- Manual inspections are often time-consuming, prone to human error, and inconsistent, leading to inaccurate quality assessments.
- Record-keeping in the traditional systems is frequently fragmented, making it difficult to track defective products or analyze trends over time.
- There are delays in detecting and addressing quality issues result in defective products being circulated, causing customer dissatisfaction and financial losses.
- Semi-automated systems are often limited in their ability to integrate data across departments or provide real-time monitoring, restricting proactive quality management.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to design and implement a computer-based quality control system for stock products that enhances efficiency, accuracy, and reliability in quality management. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To create a framework for automating quality control in stock product management to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
- To develop a computer-based system that monitors and evaluates the quality of stock products in real time.
- To design an interface and database structure that allows centralized and organized record-keeping of stock product quality.
- To implement the system in a selected organization to ensure practical monitoring, inspection, and reporting of stock products.
- To assess the effectiveness of the developed system in reducing errors, minimizing waste, and improving decision-making in stock product management.
1.5 Significance of Study
The deployment of the proposed system will hold significant relevance in the following ways:
- The study will provide accurate and timely information to make informed decisions about product quality and inventory control.
- The study will reduce manual workload, minimize errors, and improve efficiency in quality control processes.
- The study will ensure that products meet quality standards, enhancing satisfaction and trust in the organization.
- The study will serve as a basis for further research in computer-based quality control systems and industrial automation.
- The study will improve operational performance, reduce waste, and strengthen compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
1.6 Scope of Study
The study focuses on the development and implementation of a computer-based quality control system for stock products, with specific application to Lagos State-based manufacturing and distribution companies in Nigeria. The system is designed to monitor and maintain product quality during storage, handling, and distribution stages, ensuring timely detection of defects and improving overall operational efficiency.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet).
1.8 Definition of Terms
Computer-Based Quality Control System: A technology-driven system that uses computer software and hardware to monitor, inspect, and evaluate the quality of products in stock, ensuring compliance with predefined standards (Montgomery, 2019).
Quality Control: Operational techniques and activities used to meet quality requirements, including inspection, measurement, and corrective actions (Evans & Lindsay, 2020).
Stock Product: Goods stored in a warehouse or inventory for sale, distribution, or production purposes (Oakland, 2018).
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