Check vs. Control

Attribute	Check	Control
Definition	Verifying or inspecting something to ensure it meets requirements or standards	Taking actions to manage or mitigate risks and deviations from plans
Focus	Ensuring correctness and compliance	Managing and correcting deviations
Timing	Usually done during or after a process	Implemented throughout the process
Responsibility	Typically done by quality assurance or inspection teams	Usually falls on project managers or team leaders
Outcome	Identifying issues and non-conformities	Implementing corrective actions and preventive measures

Definition

Check and control are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings in the context of management. Check refers to the process of verifying whether a task or activity has been completed according to the established standards or requirements. It involves comparing the actual results with the planned objectives to identify any deviations. Control, on the other hand, involves taking corrective actions to ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved. It focuses on monitoring performance, identifying issues, and implementing changes to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Purpose

The primary purpose of check is to assess the progress and quality of work to ensure that it meets the desired standards. It helps in identifying any discrepancies or deviations from the planned objectives so that corrective actions can be taken. Check is more about evaluation and verification of results. Control, on the other hand, is about taking proactive measures to manage and regulate the performance of individuals, processes, or systems. It involves setting targets, monitoring progress, and making adjustments to achieve the desired outcomes.

Process

The process of check involves comparing the actual results with the planned objectives to determine whether the work has been completed as per the requirements. It may involve conducting inspections, audits, or reviews to assess the quality and performance of the work. Check is usually done after the completion of a task or activity to evaluate the outcomes. Control, on the other hand, is an ongoing process that involves setting performance standards, measuring actual performance, comparing the results with the standards, and taking corrective actions to address any deviations.

Focus

The focus of check is on verifying whether the work has been done correctly and in accordance with the established standards. It is more about assessing the quality and accuracy of the outcomes. Check helps in identifying any errors, defects, or inefficiencies in the work. Control, on the other hand, is more about managing and regulating the performance to ensure that the desired objectives are achieved. It focuses on monitoring progress, identifying issues, and implementing changes to improve performance.

Tools

There are various tools and techniques that can be used for check, such as checklists, inspections, audits, reviews, and performance evaluations. These tools help in assessing the quality and performance of the work and identifying any deviations from the planned objectives. Control, on the other hand, involves tools like performance indicators, key performance indicators (KPIs), dashboards, and performance reports. These tools help in monitoring performance, measuring progress, and taking corrective actions to achieve the desired outcomes.

Benefits

The benefits of check include ensuring quality and accuracy of work, identifying errors and inefficiencies, and improving performance. It helps in verifying whether the work meets the established standards and requirements. Control, on the other hand, helps in managing and regulating performance, achieving the desired objectives, and improving efficiency and effectiveness. It ensures that the work is on track and any deviations are addressed in a timely manner.