Quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) are two important concepts in the field of quality management. While they are often used interchangeably, there are notable differences between the two.

QC focuses on the identification and correction of defects in products or services. It involves the testing and inspection of the final output to ensure it meets the specified quality standards. QC aims to catch and fix any issues before the product or service reaches the customers, minimizing the chances of customer dissatisfaction.

QA, on the other hand, is a broader approach that encompasses all activities and processes designed to ensure quality throughout the entire production or service delivery process. It involves setting up quality management systems, developing quality standards, and implementing quality control measures. QA focuses on preventing defects and improving overall quality by addressing the root causes of problems.

In summary, QC is focused on detecting and correcting defects in the final output, while QA aims to ensure quality throughout the entire production or service delivery process to prevent defects from occurring in the first place.