ASQ Z1.11-2002, in its role as a guidance standard, focuses on the generic quality system requirements of ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001-2000 (the U.S. equivalent of ISO 9001:2000) and on its application to education and training institutions. Like some service industries, education and training institutions provide a mental product that is intangible, not storable, and consumed during delivery.

Students, one way or another, pay for instruction. As customers, their many different needs and expectations for improved mental or physical ability should be met and surpassed. While it is appropriate for ASQ Z1.11-2002 to suggest specific guidelines to education and training institutions, this does not mean that ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9004-2000 or ASQ Z1.11-2002 are the only ways to meet the requirements of ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001-2000.