AS9100 accreditation is the basic entry fee for electronics manufacturers serving high reliability markets such as aerospace. But it isn’t the whole story.
Rather like more general quality systems such as ISO 9001, the number of potential suppliers holding the accreditation gradually meant that it became a way of excluding those who weren’t accredited, rather than selecting those who were.
Customers needed additional criteria to choose the right partner. Typically those criteria included specialist sector expertise, a strong track record and the approach to customer service. With AS9100 it’s no different.
Accreditation and Beyond
None of this is to downplay the significance or importance of accreditation.
AS9100 accreditation requires a PCB manufacturer to demonstrate rigorous end-to-end quality control measures, with a particular focus on traceability and documentation. There must be clear records of materials used, production steps and testing procedures to ensure regulatory compliance and facilitate efficient troubleshooting.
Efficient and rigorous supply chain management is critical. Projects can then be executed more smoothly with streamlined production processes and rapid defect detection and elimination.
These are all essential requirements. With over 20 years’ experience of being AS9100 accredited, these requirements and procedures are well and truly embedded across Trizo’s business and supply chain.
Responsiveness and Innovation
But in our experience, manufacturers and OEMs in the aerospace sector are looking for more. They want partners who can quickly grasp their specific requirements and deliver innovative, commercially viable solutions.
Sector experience counts. Like any highly specialised sector aerospace has specific priorities and requirements. OEMs and manufacturers don’t have the time to educate PCB manufacturing partners about these requirements – so they look for a strong and successful track record.
And beyond this, they want partners who are responsive, communicative and easy to work with. AS9100 doesn’t tell you anything about that. For that you need to look at what the company has delivered, how, and who for. Interested in learning more about modern electronics manufacturing for high reliability markets? Access our free resource centre to find out more.
