Nonconformance

A nonconformance is a part, material or condition that doesn't meet its specified requirements, identified during inspection or production and typically documented through a nonconformance report (NCR). It triggers a decision process: reject the part, rework it, or, in some cases, use it as-is with a formal deviation approval.

Why nonconformance resolution isn't a single default response

How a nonconformance is resolved (scrap, rework, or use-as-is with approval) has a real cost impact, and a factory's nonconformance process should route each case to whichever resolution is actually appropriate, not default to the same response every time.

Where nonconformance gets documented

Not on the drawing; a nonconformance arises when an inspected part fails to meet requirements the drawing specifies, and is documented separately in an NCR.

Common mistakes

Treating every nonconformance the same way (always scrap, or always rework) without evaluating whether the specific deviation could be resolved more cost-effectively through a different path, including, where appropriate, a formal use-as-is deviation.

Is a nonconformance the same as a defect?

Closely related; nonconformance is the formal term for a part or condition failing to meet requirements, typically documented through an NCR process.

What happens after a nonconformance is identified?

It typically triggers a decision process: scrap, rework, or a formal deviation to use the part as-is, depending on the specific issue and requirements.

Can a nonconforming part still be used?

Sometimes, through a formal deviation or concession process, if it's judged fit for purpose despite not meeting the original specification.