Concept

What is Special Characteristic?

In 30 seconds

A special characteristic is a product or process characteristic that needs special control because it can affect safety, regulatory compliance, fit or function. It is designated by the customer or the organisation and usually marked with customer-specific symbols.

How does it work?

  • It is identified through design and risk analyses; customer-specific requirements can add further requirements.
  • It is marked consistently on drawings, the FMEA, the control plan and instructions.
  • It usually requires tighter monitoring, capability and record retention.

Often confused with

Special and critical characteristic

Names and symbols vary from OEM to OEM; the same concept can go by different names at different customers.

Common mistakes

  • Losing the symbols somewhere along the document chain.
  • Not distinguishing customer-specific symbols and requirements.

From a QWorks perspective

In QWorks the special characteristic a case affects is visible with its product context, so prioritisation and escalation can follow it.

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