Given the various methods and approaches that are possible, what really are the key quality management practices to promote and emphasize within an organization? I recognize that many companies view quality assurance as being synonymous with testing. While I recognize the need for testing, I also recognize the value of quality assurance methods and quality management. It seems as if we are resorting to and focusing on more and more testing. So, again, what really are the key quality management practices to promote and emphasize within an organization? 

You’re spot on, quality assurance (QA) isn’t just testing; it’s a broader mindset that can save you from drowning in endless test cycles. The key quality management practices to emphasize in an organization go beyond slapping a “pass/fail” label on the end product. Here’s my few cents:
Catch problems before they’re coded in. Thinking prevention, not just detection.
Ditching the “QA is someone else’s job” vibe.
Process Discipline with Flexibility - Standardize what works (e.g., code reviews, risk-based testing)
Skilled humans spot what AI and automation can’t, like usability quirks or edge cases.

Some key quality management practices observed on the field. Maybe not the only ones but sharing a lot with process management :
- ownership
- responsibily and small units responsible
- monitoring and visibility
- transparency
- user feedback
- quality by design
- changé management
- animation and coordination (transversal)
Quite a challenge !

Sounds outlandish, but I always vote for these:
Ownership attitude which results in the highest level of care (right first time output in any area of the business).
Loving what one is doing and doing it with people who care about each other (this is not about family style kumbaya bla-bla, but respect and care for each other as one knows how their actions impact others inside and outside of the company).
Bringing everyone to the exact same understanding of what we mean by quality and right first time outcomes in the company.

These all will result in excellent quality.

The question is rather: do people really want quality, or just speed and mediocre outcomes are enough, so to say? As that's what has been going on for a long time in business.

Hi there, more testing is just old school I agree.

Depending on the maturity of the organization I would start step by step, building the missing blocks around testing. 

This may include: systematic root cause analysis of failures/defects/claims (keeping it simple and including training on how to do it properly), risk mitigation through process audits on the shopfloor making sure actions/methods are properly applied and then manufacturing instructions/process parameters review.

Next two areas: suppliers/supplies and product design.

Do not overcomplicate. Keep everything simple, manageable, and measurable. Build a plan, do not overlap too many activities causing people overload and resistance. Communicate what you are doing in simple terms, avoid buzzwords. Make people effortlessly understand what's going on. Build confidence and buy in step by step. Find allies and early adopters at all levels.

Good luck!

I would say 'one size does not fit all'.  Combining Six Sigma’s focus on process improvement with benchmarking, Root Cause Analysis (RAC), and customer feedback can create a robust framework for continuous enhancement. Six Sigma’s methodology emphasizes reducing variability and defects in processes, which aligns well with benchmarking practices that compare performance metrics against industry standards or best practices. Some say that's 'old school'- I'd say it's a tried and true method.  Integrating Root Cause Analysis, can help to identify and address the underlying causes of process inefficiencies or failures, ensuring that improvements are sustainable. Additionally, incorporating customer feedback into this framework ensures that the changes made are aligned with customer needs and expectations, leading to higher satisfaction and loyalty. This holistic approach not only drives operational excellence but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and customer-centricity.  Even if you do all that- we still find gaps!