By Chad Perry

The AS9100 is a standard providing a framework for the development of total quality management for aerospace companies. It came about in late 1999 as a response to shortcomings in the commonly used ISO 9000. It was a popular reform among industry insiders and observers alike. It was crafted with the specific needs of aerospace engineering and production in mind.

The standard is an extension of ISO 9000. It contains additional quality and safety guidelines for aerospace businesses. Prior to its introduction, the ISO 9000 was the main standard used throughout the industry. It was broadly accepted that it fell short of needs. The extended industry specific version was released to correct the perceived shortcomings. It was widely accepted as meeting that goal and quickly adopted in its target market.

A complete set of processes, including documentation requirements, are outlined by AS9100. Improved quality management and greater safety awareness are two of the main benefits. The documentation requirements are particularly noteworthy. They are enabling for both production workers and management. Objective standards are used to judge employee productivity, product output, research progress, and similar considerations. Employees are given clarity regarding expectations and procedures.

There are a basic set of guidelines with the goal of achieving a total quality management system. The key elements are standardized procedures for all core processes and the full documentation of these procedures. In total, this ensures that everyone in the company is on the same page and given uniform standards.

Standardization addresses many common business ills. It prevents managers from micromanaging or operating a number of semi-independent and often conflicting fiefdoms. It also prevents employees from disclaiming knowledge of proper procedure or company expectations.

Detailed record keeping, process monitoring, internal audits, and reviewing output for flaws are the next tier of processes. These steps are essential for data collection and the correction of inefficient or flawed activities and models. Data is a valuable resource, particularly as the world moves toward an information economy. Proper business decisions cannot be made without the correct data. By ensuring that most useful information about business activities are recorded, better decisions can be made for the company and its employees.

Regularly scheduled reviews of each process and the overall quality management system are essential. Progressive improvement of the company, its products, its work environment, and its internal standards are fundamental goals of implement an AS9100 based system. Processes and plans may not always work as intended and markets can change drastically. It is vital to remain flexible in order to adapt to unforeseen process flaws and economic shifts.

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One Response so far.

  1. Unknown says:

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    Regards

    ISO 9001

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