| Aspect | Quality Control | Quality Assurance |
|---|
| Focus | Detecting defects in products or services | Preventing defects through process improvements |
| Activities | Inspections, testing, sampling | Process audits, standards development |
| Credentials | Often requires technical training or certifications in testing | Certifications like ISO, Six Sigma are common |
| Work Environment | Laboratory, production lines, manufacturing | Process development, documentation, audits |
While Quality Control focuses on identifying defects after production, Quality Assurance aims to prevent defects through process improvements. Both roles are essential for maintaining product quality, but they differ in approach and activities.