QA vs QC vs Testing: Key Differences Everyone Confuses
2025-10-16
In the software development world, these three terms are often used as synonyms, but each represents a unique and complementary approach to ensuring quality. We explain once and for all what differentiates them.
Clear Definitions
QA (Quality Assurance)
Approach: Proactive and preventive.
Objective: Prevent defects through processes.
Key phrase: "Doing things right from the start".
Example: Defining coding standards.
QC (Quality Control)
Approach: Reactive and corrective.
Objective: Identify defects in the product.
Key phrase: "Finding errors in what's already built".
Example: Code review before release.
Testing
Approach: Specific part of QC.
Objective: Execute tests to find bugs.
Key phrase: "Validate it works correctly".
Example: Functionality testing.
Comparative List
QA (Quality Assurance)
• When it acts: During the process.
• Responsible: Entire team.
• Result: Process improvement.
QC (Quality Control)
• When it acts: At the end of the process.
• Responsible: QC team.
• Result: Verified product.
Testing
• When it acts: Specific phases.
• Responsible: Testers.
• Result: Identified bugs.
Practical Project Example
Mobile app development:
1. QA: Establish code review protocols.
2. QC: Inspect final build.
3. Testing: Test login and navigation functions.
Why the Confusion?
Overlap: Testing is part of QC.
Terminology: Companies use terms interchangeably.
Culture: Small teams combine roles.
Consequences of Confusion
- Lack of prevention: Only reactive testing.
- Weak processes: No continuous improvement.
- Inefficiency: Duplication of efforts.
Key fact: Companies with separate QA have 40% fewer production bugs (Capgemini).