In terms of quality assurance, what does a contractor's existing quality assurance system substitute for?

A contractor's existing quality assurance system is designed to ensure that the processes and products meet certain standards of quality without the need for invasive external oversight. This system substitutes for government inspection and testing because it provides a structured approach for maintaining quality control throughout the production or service delivery process.

By having an established quality assurance system, the contractor effectively demonstrates their commitment to meeting quality standards, thereby reducing the reliance on government entities to perform these checks. This approach streamlines operations, supports efficiency, and places the responsibility of quality management on the contractor rather than on governmental oversight. This creates a cooperative relationship, wherein the government can trust that the contractor is maintaining the required quality without necessitating frequent tests or inspections.