摘要: |
A remarkable evolution in quality assurance specifications has taken place during the last 35 years. This evolution has taken the form of various quality-improvement initiatives. The genesis of these initiatives was the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' (AASHTO) Road Test of 1956-1958 and the analyses that emanated from that historic study - in particular, the discovery of the magnitude of variabilities in the quality of highway construction, and resulting concerns about the need for improved specifications. The various initiatives produced several forms of specifications, each an improvement on the previous: statistically oriented end-result specifications (1960s); statistical quality assurance (1970s); total quality management (1980s); and quality management (1980s). This evolution is continuing, and there is more interest in quality today than ever before. This paper discusses recent initiatives in quality management, including national quality initiative, performance-related specifications, pay factors, and warranties. |