Another International Quality Award For GMC

Edited by the Printingtalk editorial team Mar 4, 2005

Digital printing software business, GMC Software Technology, had added worldwide ISO 9001:2000 certification to its list of international quality standards.

Digital printing software business, GMC Software Technology, had added worldwide ISO 9001:2000 certification to its list of international quality standards.

The Swiss-based company, which has offices around the world, including the UK, offers document design, composition and production systems for the financial, insurance, energy, utilities and direct mail industries.

"GMC has set high goals for itself on behalf of its customers around the world.

It has implemented an effective quality assurance and management programme in a relatively short period of time.

I'm impressed with its enthusiasm and professionalism," said Lubomir Ondrejcek, the lead auditor for DNV Certification BV.

GMC also uses the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) and Six Sigma methods for underpinning its strategy of continuous improvement and quality management.

Developed by the Software Institute at Carnegie Melon University in the USA, CMM uses a proven methodology for improving software development, project estimation, productivity, analysis and benchmarking with an evaluation process similar to ISO.

The specific benefits of adopting that approach are said to have included an improved software features list and a new process for understanding customer needs and incorporating them into development plans as well as helping GMC to prioritise software development ideas.

It also means software releases are based on predictable quality assurance measures so that customers can focus on developing their own businesses with the confidence that as they grow, the software will grow with them.

Six Sigma is a process of data and statistical analysis for measuring and improving a company's operational performance by identifying and eliminating defects in manufacturing and service-related processes.

"By adhering to multiple quality standards we ensure a focus on improvement that encompasses all aspects of our business.

We have implemented a highly effective, measurable programme in a relatively short time," added Rene Mueller, GMC Software's chief executive officer.