Lesson Plan

• Describe the main quality‑control methods (inspection, SPC, Six Sigma, ISO 9001, Lean tools) and their key features.
• Explain how each method influences cost, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency and competitive advantage.
• Evaluate the suitability of a QC method for a specific product or service using criteria such as product type, scale, resources and strategic goals.
• Apply quantitative metrics (defect rate, Cp, Cpk) to assess quality performance and estimate potential savings.
• Propose improvement actions based on quality data and stakeholder feedback.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Handout summarising QC methods and impacts
• Sample product/image for an inspection demo
• Spreadsheet template for defect‑rate and cost‑saving calculations
• Case‑study printout (Company X SPC example)
• Sticky notes for a Kaizen activity

Begin with a quick poll: “What happens to a business when a product repeatedly fails?” Use the responses to highlight the real‑world stakes of quality. Recall the previous lesson on product differentiation, linking it to quality as a competitive factor. Explain that by the end of the session students will be able to analyse and choose appropriate quality‑control methods and justify their impact on performance.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list QC methods they know on sticky notes; teacher adds any missing.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Definitions of QC, QA, TQM and overview of five key methods using slides.
3. Table analysis activity (12’) – In groups, examine the provided QC methods table; fill a worksheet identifying cost, reputation and efficiency impacts.
4. Case‑study deep‑dive (10’) – Read the Company X SPC example, calculate defect‑rate reduction and £ savings; discuss why SPC worked.
5. Method‑selection simulation (8’) – Each group receives a product scenario; using the suitability checklist they choose the most appropriate QC method and present their rationale.
6. Exit‑ticket quiz (5’) – One‑sentence response: “Which QC method best supports a cost‑leadership strategy and why?”

Summarise how different QC methods can shape a business’s costs, reputation and competitive edge. Collect the exit‑ticket responses to gauge understanding, and assign a brief homework: research a real company that has adopted ISO 9001 or Six Sigma and write a 150‑word summary of the impact.