Which term best describes the practice of checking products at the end of production?

The practice of checking products at the end of production is best described by the term "Quality Control." This process focuses on the verification of products to ensure they meet the required standards before they reach the end customer. It involves inspecting, testing, and evaluating products at various stages or at the completion of the production process to identify any defects or non-conformance to specifications.

Quality Control is primarily reactive, addressing issues with the product that may arise during the manufacturing phase. This is crucial as it helps companies to identify defects and reduce the likelihood of subpar products reaching the market, thereby maintaining customer satisfaction and company reputation.

In contrast, Quality Management encompasses the overall strategy for maintaining and improving quality across all areas of an organization. Quality Assurance refers to the systematic processes that are put in place to ensure quality, focusing on preventing defects before they occur. Quality Improvement involves ongoing efforts to enhance product quality and organizational processes over time, aiming for continuous enhancement rather than a one-time check.

Identifying these distinctions helps clarify why Quality Control is the most suitable term for the practice of checking products after production.