QA vs QC is one of the most commonly confused topics in architecture and construction. This episode breaks down the difference between quality assurance and quality control, and how they work together across every phase of a project.
Quality assurance prevents problems. Quality control finds them. We cover how QA/QC works during design, documentation, and construction administration, with a full curtain wall system walkthrough from specification through final installation.
Emily also clarifies who is responsible for what in the quality process, because the ARE loves testing those role boundaries.
📝 Key topics covered:
QA vs QC: prevention vs detection and why the distinction matters
How quality management works during design, documentation, and construction
Roles and responsibilities: architect, owner, and contractor
Real-world curtain wall QA/QC example from design through closeout
Where QA/QC shows up on the ARE and CDT exams
⏱️ Chapters:
(0:00) Introduction to QA/QC
(1:27) Understanding the Basics
(6:16) QA/QC During Design Phase
(12:14) QA/QC During Construction Docs
(15:38) QA/QC in Construction Admin
(19:36) Roles and Responsibilities
(24:36) Real-World Curtain Wall Example
(28:44) Exam Tips and Conclusion
📝 Download the FREE QA vs QC study notes
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