Quality control processing system for survey operations

The methods used to control the quality of Statistics Canada’s survey processing operations generally involve acceptance sampling by attributes with rectifying inspection, contained within the broader framework of Acceptance Control. Although these methods are recognized as good corrective procedures, they do little in themselves to prevent errors from recurring. As this is of the utmost importance in any quality program, the Quality Control Processing System (QCPS) has been designed with error prevention as one of its primary focuses. Accordingly, the system produces feedback reports and graphs for operators, supervisors and managers involved in the various operations. The system also produces information concerning changes in the inspection environments which enable methodologists to adjust inspection plans/procedures in accordance with the strategy of Acceptance Control. This paper highlights the main tabulation and estimation features of the QCPS and the manner in which it serves to support the principal quality control programs at Statistics Canada. Major capabilities from a methodological and systems perspective are discussed.