NISC maintains a continuous improvement Quality Assurance Program (QAP) to ensure the highest possible levels of performance and quality. The foundation of our corporate QAP is the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) approach (a Six Sigma Methodology) for a metrics-based continual process improvement. The proven advantages of our DMAIC approach include implementation of:

• A robust quality improvement capability that is based on training workers and process owners.
• Performance measurements through objective metrics that include throughput rates by function and error rates by individual and by function that are based on comparison of target and actual performance levels.
• Continual process improvement through robust feedback and corrective action loops that are embedded in our approach.

DMAIC is not a stand-alone program, but operates in the context of the Team's Overall Quality Program. The key elements of this program include:

• Policies and objectives are clearly defined, and embraced by project staff and line management.
• Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
• Roles and responsibilities are clearly communicated.
• Project staff are competent to perform their assigned responsibilities.
• Materials, tools, process, and knowledge are available to the project team in a useful and timely manner.
• Periodic review is conducted to evaluate and refine management processes, controls, tools, and support.