Which of the following best describes a quality assurance process?

A quality assurance process is fundamentally centered around the continuous improvement of processes to enhance product quality. This involves systematically planning, monitoring, and optimizing operating procedures to prevent defects rather than merely identifying them after they occur. By focusing on the processes that lead to product creation, quality assurance aims to establish standards and procedures that create consistent results, reduce variability, and ultimately increase customer satisfaction.

This proactive stance contrasts with other potential approaches, such as being reactive to defects after they've been identified or enforcing strict regulations that may stifle flexibility and innovation. Furthermore, an emphasis on product inspection over the underlying processes can lead to a culture of merely checking outputs, rather than fostering an environment where quality is integrated into every step of production. By prioritizing process improvement, organizations can sustain high levels of quality and efficiency, leading to better overall outcomes.