Concept

What is NCR?

Nonconformity

In 30 seconds

A nonconformity is the non-fulfilment of a requirement: a product, process or system does not meet what is expected. A nonconformance report (NCR) is the document in which it is recorded.

How does it work?

  • The nonconformity is detected and its scope (product, lot, quantity) is defined.
  • Affected product is segregated and a disposition is decided, such as use-as-is, repair, rework or scrap.
  • Where needed, root cause analysis and corrective action are started.

Often confused with

Nonconformity and defect

Every defect is a nonconformity, but a nonconformity is not only a product defect; a process or record that fails a requirement is one too.

Common mistakes

  • Treating the product disposition as enough to close an NCR, without addressing the cause.
  • Closing recurring NCRs one by one and missing the pattern.

From a QWorks perspective

In QWorks a nonconformity is not just a record but a case with an owner, a deadline and, where needed, a problem-solving chain.

Updated: