Answer: Automatic
When performing a Do procedure, automation is the only way to force compliance. Some tools, such as CASE tools, automatically enforce task completion and sequence, and deliverable standards.
Self-Checking
This is when the process owner (author) uses a method other than the Do procedure, to crosscheck his/her work. Methods in this category are:
Analysis tools, which parse and analyze deliverables after they have been created, such as spelling checkers, writing analyzers, and code analyzers (e.g., standards compliance, complexity analyzers, and cross-reference tools).
Checklists, which are worksheets containing a list of questions oriented towards determining whether the standards have been adhered to. They are designed to provide a summary-style self-check for the author. Checklists often mirror policies, standards, and procedures, but address each compliance issue in the form of a question. A "yes" answer means that the author has followed the process and has produced a result that matches the intent of the policy statement. A "no" answer indicates noncompliance.
Desk-checks, where the author or owner reviews the product against specifications and standards. It is uncontrolled and subject to the time requirements of each individual.
One-on-one reviews, which are informal reviews conducted between the author/owner and one other person. The objective is to review against specifications and standards.
Tests, which validate that the actual results are the expected or desired results.
Peer Reviews
One or more process owners review the results of the author. Typically, quality problems are noted, and the author corrects them. Various methods exist, from informal to formal.
Supervisory
The author’s supervisor reviews the work and ensures that defects found are corrected. This is problematic because it takes responsibility for quality away from the worker, and may beineffective because the supervisor is not sufficiently skilled or knowledgeable about the work to make intent or judgment calls regarding compliance. It may also influence the supervisor unfairly regarding a worker’s performance. Supervisors may use the informal walkthrough, checklists, or testing for control methods.
Third Party
An independent group evaluates the product. As with supervisory controls, this is problematic because responsibility for quality is taken from the worker and the third party may not have the skills or knowledge about the work to determine compliance. Examples of independent groups are quality functions and independent test teams. Methods used by third parties include informal walkthroughs, checklists, testing, analysis tools, and sampling.
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